“I believe that you can be successful in any profession with a degree in communication.” – Tia Follis, online BA in communication lecturer
Considering her longtime fascination with how we communicate with those closest to us, both verbally and nonverbally, it’s no surprise that Tia Follis would go on to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Communication and a Master of Arts in Communication Studies. She also taught communication during her graduate studies and has years of experience working as a high school teacher. We’re pleased to have her as part of UT Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication faculty.
Follis kindly shared some time to discuss our online program, explaining what she does to let online students know she’s a real person, how UTPB’s program makes it possible for those with busy lives to earn a bachelor’s degree, and why skills gained in this degree are particularly beneficial to working professionals.
Taking Her Career Online at UTPB
Follis developed her passion for teaching communication while at her alma mater, Texas Tech. “I started teaching communication at Texas Tech as a graduate assistant and immediately fell in love!” she said. Follis brought that enthusiasm to UTPB, and the result has been positive for all involved. “I get to watch students grow and develop as speakers and make improvements using skills they’ll need for the rest of their lives. I work in a very fun department! I was introduced to [it] by a member of my master’s cohort, and I am so glad that he did! Everyone is always so helpful and nice. The students are always willing to work hard and do their best and it’s always nice to interact with them.”
Providing a Personalized Education in a Remote Format
Follis finds interaction is especially crucial to building a rapport with students in an online program. “I try to be available to students as much as possible. I try to respond to emails in a timely manner and get grading done quickly so students have feedback before their next assignment. I interact with students in discussion questions, post weekly—and sometimes more [frequent]—announcements, and often share pictures so they know I’m a real life human. I think it’s harder for your [online] students to know that you really exist and that you want them to be successful. I work at helping them recognize I’m a real person and that their success is important.”
Offering Valuable Advantages to Students
When asked to summarize why prospective students should choose UTPB’s online BA in communication program, Follis focused on themes of quality, flexibility, and diversity. “There is still rigor in [online] courses, possibly more than the face-to-face classes because of the extra work you have to put into reading and writing,” she explained, allaying the concerns of students unsure about pursuing an online degree.
For those worried about finding the time required to earn a degree amid their professional and personal responsibilities, she said: “Online classes give a whole new group of students an opportunity to be successful. I have taught moms who have to finish work after their kids are in bed [and] student athletes who have to complete work early in the morning or late at night after practice. I have had traditional students, international students. It’s a great experience!”
That diverse group of students provides its own benefits for potential students, as Follis explained: “Through UTPB you get to meet people from so many different walks of life, and you get to experience a diverse culture. UTPB is truly a special place!” When you earn your degree online with UTPB, you’ll graduate with a built-in network of fellow communication professionals in a wide range of disciplines and locations.
Helping Students Hone Skills for Virtually Unlimited Career Potential
A degree is only as good as the skills it imparts, and Follis asserted our BA in communication offers some of the most important and broadly applicable ones. “Communication [encompasses] such a broad spectrum of things and can be applied to any career you’re considering. Having public speaking skills is important, interpersonal skills are crucial, knowing how to write in a professional way—all these things are necessary for success in any career! When you get a job there are many applicants that will not have those necessary skills. [This] degree gives you the skills you need to work in a competitive environment and [gain] more opportunities.”
Earn your BA in communication online under the guidance of dedicated faculty like Tia Follis! Get program details and apply now.