RICHMOND, Ky. – The Eastern Kentucky University Department of Athletics offered a “Social Media Experience” for all Colonel student-athletes on April 23-24 as part of the NCAA Student-Athlete Affairs initiative, which focuses on the total development of the student-athlete.
The Social Media Experience, or , was an immersion learning experience that guided student-athletes through the ever expanding and changing world of social media.
Through photographic slide shows, informative displays and interactive sessions on-line, student-athletes learned how best to present themselves in the digital age. While there were plenty of examples shown of mistakes other student-athletes across the county have made using social media, the event did not discourage Eastern student-athletes in having a presence in social media.
Alex Krallman and Matt Schumacher, members of the Eastern Kentucky University staff and social media “gurus”, were on hand to assist student-athletes in establishing a professional on-line presence, teach them how to update their privacy settings and even share a few tricks to help them navigate the world of social media.
Junior women’s basketball player
Raechele Gray learned that as a communications major, potential employers can and will research her presence on-line to see if she has an understanding of social media as well as the communications skills required of today’s public relations specialists.
“I didn't realize how important your on-line image can be to your future career,” Gray said. “This event has brought new perspective and helpful tips. Google yourself people!”
Eastern Kentucky Athletics has had a presence in social media for several years and has some of the highest number of followers in the Ohio Valley Conference. Through Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, Eastern promotes upcoming events, offers score updates and weekly video highlights that fans can enjoy.
EKU Athletics on Facebook
EKU Athletics on Twitter
EKU Athletics on YouTube
