Advertising -- my life

Most of us channel surf and groan when commercials interrupt our viewing pleasures, but as a junior advertising major I welcome advertisements (especially the latest Clearasil “Caution: May Cause Confidence” campaign – simply brilliant).

Unfortunately for my roommate, I feel the need to analyze every advertisement that comes my way. The other night I kept her up to watch some of the newest ads on youtube, but after about 20 minutes I began to sense that she was not as enthralled as I was.

Fortunately for me, ad club started this week in Scripps 111. So, Wednesday night I was able to give my roommate a break and talk about commercials to people who understand.

Now formally known as Ohio University’s Advertising Association (OUAA), ad club is off to a promising start for fall quarter. Complete with catchy slogans and free “so rad it’s sad” magnets (yes the “ad” in those two words is bolded, plus hey if there is something free and you’re in college you should show up), this club offers imaginative and original ideas for this brand obsessed world we live in.

Obviously you don’t have to be an advertising major to appreciate this kind of innovative experience. OUAA is a great opportunity for those interested in a variety of majors. There were probably around 65 people in attendance (I am just guessing here, I am in journalism because math was never my strong point), and there were a variety of majors. Marketing, graphic design and business, just to name a few. So whatever your major is it doesn’t hurt to be around some fun and creative people. It’s a great way to make new friends, which also means more connections. And, BONUS! You can put this activity on your resume.

And what would club membership be without perks? New York City trip at a discounted price! OUAA is planning its annual trip to The Big Apple for the advertising conference in October, which is another great opportunity to see some ingenious creativity. Not to mention I can score some valuable business cards of executives in the business for future internships and jobs. And I may just have to throw in a little shopping on the side as well. After all, where better to get some of those brands that have mastered the art of advertising than NYC?

OUAA also participates in the National Student Advertising Competition (NSAC). This is a chance to participate in a real campaign for a real company’s brand. Last year ad club built a campaign for Coca-Cola and received third place in the district. The company this year has yet to be revealed, but this competition is always a great way to get hands on experience by developing an advertising and marketing campaign to tell future employers about.

Ad club isn’t all fun and games though... there are fund raisers, community service projects and socials. Oh wait, those are fun. So basically, anything you do with this club is bound to be a good time. OUAA also hosts speakers from top name agencies who are serious about the branding business. They come to meetings to give advice, show examples, and get to know everyone. Once again there are great networking opportunities here.

So, if you want to meet speakers with great advice for resumes, internships and inspiring advertising, hit OUAA up on Wednesday nights in Scripps 111 at 6 p.m.
Look for the posters around Scripps, or visit the newly designed website at OUAdAssociation.org. Remember, you’ll get to meet fun people who are obsessed with creating slogans for the brands we all wear, consume and love. And, where else can you watch the Super Bowl commercials for research? So, if you’re looking for something to satisfy your creative urges “ad yourself” to the most imaginative club at Ohio University. Katelyn Mooney (km347105@ohio.edu)