Social Media Club Review Paper

SOCIAL MEDIA CLUB REVIEW

I learn more about social media every day, and the Social Media Club of Cache Valley (SMCCV) only broadened by understanding. Many members, interested citizens and students attended the meeting Monday, April 9^th.

While at the venue, Sweetly Divine, (Many were tempted to call it “Tweetly Divine”) I thoroughly enjoyed the 30 percent discount given to attendees. The seats were nearly all taken, as the meeting produced a packed house. Audience members ranged from young to old, students to professors, and single to married individuals.

It was a well ran event consisting of an introduction, “meet and greet,” multiple drawings, speakers and time to explore social media. Many guests took time to tweet about the experience, or update their facebook status. President Preston Parker made announcements and conducted the meeting, while other board members assisted where needed. Jason Williams, in charge of club events, spoke for fifteen minutes on the group’s trip to the state capitol.

According to Williams, the legislature is usually very protective of their information, and keeps their meetings “closed door.” However for the media club, things were different. Williams and friends were taken on tours, and had access to nearly anything they wanted. “We were treated so kindly either because of ignorance and not understanding, or completely understanding what we were,” Williams said.

Members learned from the trip how on-board with social media the state of Utah really is. “Utah.gov” has completely embraced it, sending reminders via Twitter and Facebook about voting and locations. Organizations can set their own reputation when they are involved with online sources.

I learned how much information is accessible via social media outlets. According to Williams, incredible volumes and amounts of information can be exchanged through “hash-tags” alone on Twitter. Also, social media has raised the level of engagement throughout the state.

Overall, the meeting was a success. It was well attended and smoothly ran. Guests participated by asking questions and feeding discussion. I am grateful I attended, and learned more about online media than I would have thought. It is not out of the question to see me at a meeting in the future!