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RUONAN ZHANG

Learning from doing
Community Engagement Course
New Media & PR

What do we do?

Community Engagement Courses at Rollins offer students opportunities to learn from doing. They are not only sitting in a classroom as in a traditional college class, they can also understand the course subjects from serving a local organization that is a community partner of the college. This semester we are working with the Hamilton Holt school at Rollins College to increase the brand awareness of the program and to increase the engagement level of Holt community to Rollins mission, events, and activities.

Below are sample blog posts crafted by students from the New Media and Public Relations class.



Previous Project

For New Media and PR class at Spring 2020, we worked with The Center for Health and Welling at Winter Park (CHWB) to conduct a series of online public relations effort for them. The goal of the collaboration is to help CHWB expanding the current customer demographics by reaching more college-aged potential customers. The PR projects within the course include:
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- Conducting Qualitative and Quantitative Audience Analysis
- Constructing Blogposts Based on Students' Personal Experience at CHWB
- Creating Social Media Contents for CHWB to Attract Target Audience
- Creating YouTube Videos for CHWB that are Relative to Young Demographics

Sample Project Reports
Creative Videos
Social Media Gallery

We R One

11/17/2020

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By Sophia Pellegrini, Stella Pace, Chris Carter, Reilly Hughes
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Here at Rollins we strive on making our students the best people they can be and to have fun and engaging times with their peers while on campus. Rollins hosts multiple events annually which invites the entire Rollins community whether you're a CLA student, Holt evening student, or any member of the faculty and staff. These events are a great way to bring together the whole community into one location. However, we’ve noticed multiple flaws in Rollins promotion schemes when it comes to other extracurricular activities on campus. Rollins seems to target their CLA day-time students substantially more than their Crummer and Holt school students. This has led to a massive divide in the students rather than having them feel like one unit or a “family” which in turn extremely decreases the amount of internal engagement on campus between CLA and Holt students.  

“SGA meets during Holt classes at 7 pm and I can never make it. It makes me upset they would choose a time when I have a Holt class” said Autumn Rudolf when we asked her if she was involved in any extracurricular activities at Rollins. When we heard this, we thought about how crazy it was that they have student government association meetings during Holt class hours. SGA is a major part of Rollins as it holds four senators from each class and representatives from various student groups. These selected senators sit on faculty committees, including Academic Affairs, Finance, Professional Standards, and Student Life. Now hearing about what SGA does involving campus life, you would think they would have made it at a more convenient time so that those who want to attend can. No matter how many ways we can list about making the internal engagement increase, it starts with one thing and one thing only. SGA. The student government association does have power and a voice within Rollins and these senators should be noticing that the internal engagement of Rollins is decreasing daily. Let's change this internal engagement SGA, we need to do this.

Considering there is little to no awareness of internal engagement within the Holt school since Rollins targets CLA students rather Holt and Crummer students, incorporating mass email notifications sent to the student body or social media posts regarding activities and on-campus events can lead to more internal engagement amongst the entire student body. Actively trying to include Holt students within Rollins events can increase Holt school and Rollins student body engagement. According to the survey results, a lot of Holt students were not aware but interested in volunteering events. Rollins could incorporate such events where CLA and Holt students could participate simultaneously. In that case, it could lead to greater engagement between the two and bring the student body closer as a whole. 
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A way Rollins could make this belongingness and internal engagement increase, even more, maintaining a social media presence is a successful aspect of maintaining this engagement level increasing. Social media brings us closer every day although many do not realize it. We believe creating a separate Holt evening Instagram page and communicating through it about events, could promote more this engagement. Yes, SGA meets at inconvenient times, but we believe this will be a matter of change and the change is beginning now, with us. Once all the extracurricular activities are changed to times that are convenient for the whole student body, promoting on social media will be very beneficial. Not many people realize this lack of internal engagement since it has not been talked about very much. Through a social media presence, word of mouth could instill more voices to be heard about this issue that has come to our community here at Rollins.
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3 THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT ROLLINS’ HAMILTON HOLT PROGRAM

11/15/2020

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​by Georgia McGill, Jenna Quiambao, Patty Rodriguez, and Valentina Serino
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One Holt student in an interview said, “I feel like this school is developing better quality human beings. Better quality students, which are going to be the future. Better quality people like for me, implementing what I’m learning into my business and craft, where it’s not about me. It’s focusing on society.” Would you like to know what this student is talking about?

​Below are three insightful points of information you may or may not know about Rollins College’s Hamilton Holt program. Yes, that evening undergraduate program for Business Management, Communication Studies, Elementary Education, Psychology, and more majors and minors! And yes, ALSO that evening graduate program for MA in Teaching, Clinical Science, MBA, and more. Take a look!

1. IT’S A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY FOR “NON-TRADITIONAL” STUDENTS.

The Holt program is not designed just for young students who possibly work part-time, but also for older individuals with full-time jobs or families. A recent survey revealed that Holt currently has students from eighteen-year-olds to those well in their sixties. These participants also have commonly commented that they applied because of the “more affordable” costs than the CLA program, the “convenience” of its location in Central Florida, and because of the “flexibility” it offers for those who cannot study during the day due to their circumstances. Instead of paying for tuition, the education is paid per class! To add, a Holt student in an interview has said, “The transition is so easy. If you read on the Holt website, it says as long as you have a 2.5 GPA, you’re approved.” The requirements are remarkably low! Holt makes it clear that they want to encompass as many kinds of people with diverse backgrounds as possible. Wow.

In sum, if you’ve been wanting a college education but can’t afford it or don’t have the time for it, consider Rollins’ flexible Hamilton Holt program!

2.  HOLT PAYS PER CLASS RATHER THAN TUITION.

Instead of paying for tuition, the education is paid per class! To add, a Holt student in an interview has said, “The transition is so easy. If you read on the Holt website, it says as long as you have a 2.8 GPA, you’re approved.” The requirements are remarkably low! Holt makes it clear that they want to encompass as many kinds of people with diverse backgrounds as possible.

Did we mention that over 90% of Holt students receive financial aid? Holt is ready to tend to you!

3. WITH HOLT, YOU GAIN LIFELONG POST-GRADUATE CAREER SUPPORT.

With the Holt Program, as an undergrad or graduate student, you have the ability to gain a unique educational experience and gain lifelong support as an alumni. No matter what the age, the Holt program will allow you to thrive and apply what you learn into your everyday lives. That is one passionate commitment!

Through Holt, you have a grand opportunity to gain experience and later work for a great company!

In sum, if you’ve been wanting a college education but can’t afford it or don’t have the time for it, consider Rollins’ unique Hamilton Holt program!

There is definitely more that can be said about this incredible program, but we’ll end this on a final quote from another student we interviewed: “I found sanity through Holt. For a world that’s so desensitized, I don’t see that here. I found more caring people, more people after what’s right. And as we’re being exposed to that, it creates that in us.”

​Let us know— what do YOU think about Holt?

More knowledge such as majors and Holt contact information are listed in the links below!
https://www.rollins.edu/evening/ 
https://www.rollins.edu/evening/academics/ 
https://www.rollins.edu/evening/visit/  

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3 Benefits To Choosing the Holt Program At Rollins College

11/15/2020

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By Alexa, Savannah, Alejandra, Antonio
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College is a different experience for everyone. Some people want to live on campus, see the same people every day, and eat exclusively at the on-campus dining halls. Others appreciate the amenities of campus life but have other commitments during their undergraduate education to attend to. Both are valid, and in our experience at Rollins College, there are undergraduate and graduate programs to provide you with the unique college experience you’re looking for.

The Hamilton Holt School at Rollins College offers a variety of graduate and undergraduate programs with weekday and weekend evening meeting options. With most courses having 17 students, it’s a customizable education option to fit the lifestyle you’re already actively living. There are many benefits to the Hamilton Holt School, it offers a Convenient and Flexible Schedule, it's more affordable than other Rollins Programs, and students get the same type of education and assistance as a CLA student.

Convenience and Flexibility of Schedule 

Between family and work, you might feel too busy and intimidated to pursue your educational goal. I’m here to tell you you’re not alone! The Holt program might even be the answer to your concern as it’s designed to fit your needs and lifestyle. What I mean by this is that the courses are designed to meet the interests of professionals and other adult learners. This is because we understand that keeping your current professional occupation and being able to take care of your family is one of your main priorities when deciding when and how to follow your academic dream. The program extends quality education to students who prefer the flexibility of part- or full-time study as well as the convenience of afternoon, evening, and weekend classes.
"I decided to come to the Holt program because they offer in-person and flexible schedule classes for my program that is usually found online." - Rachel Commodario
More affordable than other Rollins Programs

Rollins Hamilton Holt Program offers more affordable tuition. Evening students get to pay per course which makes it more affordable. Depending on your degree, undergraduate or graduate, the amount of money per credit varies. It can go from $503 to $685, undergraduate and graduate programs accordingly. This program benefits working adults who want to finish their degree or continue their studies but can’t afford expensive programs. Tuition at the Hamilton Holt School is competitive and comparable to that of community colleges and state universities. More than 70% of Rollins students receive financial aid, and available aid packages include scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities. For more detailed information about Financial Aid you can access this video.

Same education quality and access to the same student resources 

Though courses are taught in the afternoon or evening, the quality of Holt’s education is the same as the CLA’s education, after all, we’re all Rollins students, right? In many cases, they share the same professors and staff. Both programs provide academic advisors that will help each student with their academic plans and progress, academic schedule, choice of major, and other academic activities and career goals. They also assist the student in making decisions concerning personal educational goals leading to graduation. Students from all the programs at Rollins College have access to many resources, from which include but not limited to services at the Wellness Center, Career and Life Planning, tutoring, etc. Furthermore, they can also be a part of the many student organizations, such as Greek Life, Black Student Union, Sandspur Newspaper, and so much more.

If you’re ready to reap these benefits in your undergraduate or graduate education, it’s as simple as browsing the list of programs and exploring how you’d want to advance your career. Starting your college education, or transferring to finish your credits in the Rollins learning environment is accessible to you today and always. If you’re eager to learn more about the programs that most intrigue you, inquire for more information here.holt.rollins.edu/register/request-info
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Why is Holt Ideal for Part-Time Students During Covid-19 ?

11/15/2020

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By Samantha, Parker, Marina, and Malaika

The Holt Evening School at Rollins College is a great option for students that are either a first-time college student or are a student that is transferring credits from another school.There are so many degree programs that can help you stand out to employers which is extremely important. Due to the pandemic, one of the most dominant aspects of Holt School is the convenience it offers to you. Holt is allowing students to either be in person, completely virtual, or hybrid. This is a huge advantage to students looking for a degree but having a busy lifestyle.

Between family and work, you are busy. The Hamilton Holt School at Rollins College is designed to fit your schedule. Since you have the option for in-person classes or online classes, the Holt school gives you the opportunity to earn your degree at your own convenience. In addition, the Holt School allows for you to pick and choose your classes around your life. For example, if you have work from 9am to 5pm, you have the option to take your classes at nighttime. This benefit of being able to have a flexible class schedule is a substantial reason why theHamilton Holt School at Rollins College is a great place to earn your degree.

In the wake of the pandemic, Holt School has made some changes to their class schedule to even better accommodate the typical Holt Student lifestyle. Since classes can be in-person, or online,Holt school has made it so students who have in-person classes one day, will have all online classes on another day, so they do not have to commute to campus and then commute home to meet virtually. In speaking with Holt Student Autumn Rudolph, she describes this as “they split up the classes into three separate days so that you don’t have to be on campus for one and the off campus for another.” This example of making an active effort to alter the schedule for students convenience is just another reason Holt School is a great place to get your education.

Remember when we said one of the best aspects of Holt is the convenience it offers? That extends not only to the education part, but also the health service they have to offer. Whether it be the common cold, mental health counseling or rapid COVID-19 testing, the Wellness Centre has free, quick and convenient services that extends to all its students. At a difficult time like this, the Holt School is doing its best efforts to make the community feel united and safe by offering several virtual and socially-distanced in person services for physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and wellness.

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Holting Hands: Collaborations Between Rollins Organizations and Holt Students

11/15/2020

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By Marie Carnavas
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Diversity is the first word that comes to mind when we think of the Rollins College Hamilton Holt School. The community welcomes a range of scholars, from undergraduate and graduate students to full time working professionals. Many Holt members have obligations outside of school, which can make it difficult to connect with the Rollins community.

This brings up the question: How can Holt students feel included within the larger realm of Rollins? We interviewed Holt professor, Dr. Stephanie Kincaid, to understand an inside perspective on the matter. “My impression is that most of my students only come to campus on the nights they have class,” said Dr. Kincaid. “Many of our students live or work 35-40 minutes from campus, so having them to come to campus for a reason other than class is a lot to ask.”

But, there are many ways for Holt students of all ages, backgrounds, and professional levels to participate in extracurricular activities at their own pace. Submitting writing pieces to clubs like the Sandspur, Brushing, or The Independent are great ways for students to engage with the community on their own time. “The Holt students I’ve worked with have been incredibly dedicated and passionate about their positions and stories,” said Zoe Pearson, an Assigning Editor at the Sandspur and LGBTQ+ Advocacy Senator for the Student Government Association.

In addition, the Center for Leadership and Community Engagement (CLCE) provides volunteering opportunities for students to participate in at their own availability. For example, the CLCE hosts an annual Immersion created specifically for Holt students. Immersions are events that allow students to travel outside of Rollins to assist in projects for community agencies. “Our office has a lot of flexibility and we understand the needs of Holt students 
sometimes vary from our CLA (College of Liberal Arts) students, so we are prepared to make adjustments as necessary,” said Sofia Macias, CLCE Office and Community Coordinator.

The current 2020-2021 SGA president, Manny Rodriguez, is a Holt student. We reached out to Rodriguez to gather insight on his experience as a Holt student involved in on campus organizations. “I have learned to really organize and work hard to make sure things are progressing and not falling behind,” said Rodriguez. Manny explained that balancing his responsibilities between home and student life has been a challenge. However, he encourages Holt students to get involved on campus. “I wouldn't be the person I am today if I didn't join the club, sports team, or organization throughout the years here at Rollins.” Manny is involved in many organizations on campus, including working with the CLCE to coordinate and lead a Holt Immersion 
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Rollins has an assortment of opportunities for students to get involved in the community, without having a regular time commitment. From writing for the Sandspur to volunteering with the CLCE, there are many organizations that encourage student involvement on a variety of levels. “I know the time commitment can be challenging, but I would encourage you to at least try it out and see if it's the right fit for you,” said Rodriguez. “I know there is always something that is meant for you.” With so many opportunities, Holt students can connect with the Rollins campus on their own terms.
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The Perfect Getaway

4/20/2020

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By: Isabella Gonzalez, Hayek Serrato, and Ava Marhee
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      The moment you enter the Center of Health and Well-being you are greeted with an enthusiastic, “Welcome!” This initial greeting can prove that the environment at the Center is nothing but welcoming. As you walk through the beautiful building you will see each staff member smile and give you a wave, trying everything in their power to make you feel at home. Home away from home is a good adjective to describe the center because of the experience, amenities, and social aspects that it brings to its members. This gives you the impression that the center is a friendly environment that cares for the well-being of everyone who walks through their door. 
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       In addition to the approachable staff, the architecture of the building was another outstanding factor that distinguishes the Center from other facilities in Winter Park. The building has been structured with glass windows surrounding the building which allows the sun to beam through the whole building. The glass structure provides a way to brighten the place literally and in a metaphorical way. Each small design of the building has a meaning and purpose. After speaking with one of the staff members, Michael, as the TV/Producer he has recently interviewed the architect who built the Center. He mentioned that each specific pattern and color choice was all a purpose for the building, which created the ultimate peaceful ambiance. 
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         I am so excited to begin attending the Center for Health and Wellbeing on a regular basis! Sometimes I get a little stir-crazy being on our tiny campus 24/7, but it’s so good to know I can get away to such a welcoming and positive place not too far down the road. I’m hoping that incorporating the amazing programs that the Center offers into my emotional self-care routine will help manage my stress levels and keep me accountable. I plan to take advantage of Thoughtful Thursdays, a program that supports you in achieving your short and long-term goals and encourages you to be more mindful on a daily basis. As someone who likes to express my emotions through art, I am also thrilled about the Unleash Your Creative Spirit drawing events coming up! The Mindful Meditation class is also a great opportunity to calm the mind when things get hectic in our lives. Even just being at the facility to do homework is something that I think will benefit me emotionally because everyone is so nice and it’s so bright and revitalizing there! I might even hit their gym to release some endorphins while I’m at it. There are so many ways that I can use this Center to take care of my emotional wellbeing, and it’s safe to say that I’m happy about it!

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         The center has so many wonderful programs, it makes me even more excited for the future programs they will have! As a college student, trying to eat healthy can be a huge struggle. Sometimes it seems like it’d be so much easier to just eat out or have it delivered right to my door. This is where the center comes in. Armed with their vast knowledge of nutritious eating, a cooking class for college students is just up their alley. Giving college students a cheap alternative to eating healthy will benefit us in many ways.
            Cooking isn’t your thing? Don’t stress about it! The center will help you deal with that day to day stress. Life can be extremely stressful for college students. There are papers to be done, projects, student athletes with sports, and not to mention any extracurricular activities we might be engaged in. A program catered to helping deal with life’s stress will be sure to attract more students to the center.
            If you’re anything like me then a bit of activity will go a long way. Yoga has been known to help with your body but your mind as well. Getting a moment to declutter your mind as well as your body will have you feeling brand new. A program that will offer many different types of yoga will surely appeal to a broader audience.
            Come down to the Center for Health and Wellbeing and tell them what it is that you want. While you’re there, make sure you grab a coffee and take a look around.
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Environmental Wellbeing

4/19/2020

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by Samantha Anderson

The Winter Park Center for Health and Wellbeing believes that our environment affects our inner wellness as much as things such as physical health, spiritual health, social health, etc. In order to stimulate your senses and help you reconnect to the outside world, the center has built seven different gardens around their property, to encourage you to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, while re-centering yourself through an immersion into nature.
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​The gardens include the Welcome Garden, the Meditation Garden, the Terraced Garden, the Reflection Pool, the Aromatherapy Garden, the Bamboo Garden, and the Commons. The Welcome Garden is full of edible herbs and vegetables that are all used in the café. The Meditation and Bamboo Gardens, as well as the Reflection Pool, offer areas more secluded, to stimulate serenity and tranquility.
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​The Center also believes that the environment which you spend your time indoors is important as well, as in the Commons, offering a space for “both passage and place”, lined with tree-like columns, a canopy like ceiling, and a welcoming place for socialization or relaxation. There are plenty of places located within the center that will invoke a sense of peace within whatever space you are in.
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