Taking a step toward their futures

Social media marketing students earn certificates

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Jenifer Osorio

A student works on their Lynda course during class.

Social media marketing students were given the opportunity to obtain social media certificates by completing a course on Lynda, an online program. A total of 45 students were able to complete the course that could be beneficial for future job applications. The certificates were awarded on Monday, May 14.

“At first they treated it like it was another assignment; I don’t think they understood the opportunity they were getting,” social media marketing teacher Valerie Cooper said. “I [provided] a survey after just so I can get their feedback for even the students that aren’t always comfortable to share out loud. They really seemed to enjoy it during their progress – every time they would move up the Lynda latter or when they got their certificate. When they were complete you could really see their enthusiasm and excitement, and it was really special to watch them own their learning experience and reach their goals.”

Students had three weeks to complete the course and earn their certificates, which can benefit them by jumpstarting their marketing careers.  

“This certification can be added to their resume and allow them to work in the industry and start earning a competitive wage,” Cooper said. “Also, this course will give them the opportunity to practice their skills and post them to their portfolios. In a few weeks students will create an about.me page which is a great tool for colleges and companies to see the highlights of my students.”

Senior Phillis Mosieri enjoyed the online course on Lynda because she was able to work at her own pace. If she ever had a question, she could always refer to another video for clarification.   

“I like how they give you quizzes to prepare for the exam and how you can go back to watch a video you think you are not strong on,” Mosieri said. “If you don’t pass a quiz then [it] gives you suggestions on videos you should look at.”

Senior Elaniece Brocking was initially only a member of DECA, a business club sponsored by Cooper, but Cooper influenced her to enroll into social media marketing as well. Brocking wishes to major in computer science in college and minor in marketing.

“I feel like having a certificate online kind of feels like ‘Oh I accomplished something,’” Brocking said. “But if it’s tangible I feel like it means more because it’s like ‘Oh I actually did this,’ and if it’s in your hand like a diploma it means more to you.”