Her Campus UCF: Empowering College Women's Voices
College life is often characterized by external pressures dictating who students should be and what experiences they should pursue. Her Campus offers a refreshing alternative: a platform for college women to express their opinions, develop valuable skills, and build a supportive community. Her Campus is more than just a magazine; it's a movement that empowers students to find their voice and make a difference.
What is Her Campus?
Her Campus is an online magazine geared towards college women, offering students the opportunity to establish a branch of the magazine at their own college or university. This creates a completely student-run organization, with students forming the core of Her Campus. The University of Central Florida (UCF) chapter, founded in Spring 2011, rapidly achieved recognition, earning a spot among the Top Ten most successful branches within just three months.
Stephanie Kaplan, Annie Wang, and Windsor Hanger, are the founders of the Her Campus Media.
Real-World Experience and Skill Development
One of the most appealing aspects of Her Campus is the opportunity it provides for students to gain practical, real-world experience. HCUCF functions as a registered student organization at the University of Central Florida. It offers experience in writing, editing, social media, marketing, and public relations. It's a teaching publication, welcoming students regardless of prior experience.
Newton, the founder of the UCF chapter, shares that she has learned a lot, emphasizing that hard work pays off and that being part of something bigger than oneself is truly amazing. She also gained valuable leadership, teamwork, and liaison skills.
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Her Campus at UCF provides students with invaluable experience and skill development. Members can hone their abilities in writing, editing, social media management, marketing, and public relations. The organization functions as a teaching publication, meaning no prior experience is required to join.
Opportunities for Growth
Her Campus provides a platform for students to amplify their voices and make a real impact. One member's article, "I Cut Off My Father Over Politics - & Built A Life I’m Proud Of," resonated on a national scale, leading to new opportunities. This highlights how involvement with Her Campus can open doors and provide a springboard for future success.
Community and Support
Beyond professional development, Her Campus cultivates a strong sense of community. The Her Campus Team meets weekly, fostering camaraderie and collaboration. HCUCF also hosts events and bonding opportunities to ensure the team feels like a family.
According to Ashley Arenal, president of Her Campus at UCF, staying virtually connected with the group has been immensely helpful during challenging times, offering a supportive network where members can share their feelings and experiences.
Her Campus chapters have evolved into inclusive spaces for underrepresented groups, including many minority groups and the LGBTQ+ community. The organization champions equality, fostering a welcoming environment for all its members, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or race.
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A Source of Support During Difficult Times
In the face of adversity, Her Campus at UCF has proven to be a reliable source of support and resilience. During the COVID-19 pandemic, members connected through virtual socials and meetings, providing a space to combat feelings of isolation and anxiety. Professional development workshops helped students continue to gain new skills and improve their resumes despite the challenging circumstances.
Following the death of George Floyd, members found support by attending protests together, sharing safety tips, and exchanging resources. By actively covering the movement, Her Campus writers contributed to raising awareness and promoting change among college students.
During the presidential election, members provided information, help, and support to one another, sharing voting resources and offering encouragement. The organization used its social media platforms to advocate for political engagement and amplify the voices of UCF students.
Testimonials
Samantha Olson, deputy editor of HCUCF, emphasizes the organization's role as an incredible support system rooted in intersectional feminism, where she is surrounded by like-minded individuals who believe in her.
Rose Balicki, HCUCF’s senior editor, highlights the creative freedom Her Campus provides, allowing her to write about topics she cares about and wouldn't have had the opportunity to explore otherwise. She emphasizes the lasting impact of the organization, not only in improving writing skills but also in shaping perspectives and fostering a sense of empowerment.
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Getting Involved
Her Campus at UCF offers various committees, including editorial, events, social media, and marketing, each providing opportunities for members to gain valuable experience and build their creative portfolios.
Recent Activities and Events
Her Campus UCF and the Society of Professional Journalists recently hosted an Intern Pursuit Prep event, equipping students with resume tips and interview strategies.
