Have you ever had something to say and couldn’t say it? Do you have interesting, creative viewpoints on more topics than there are colors in a rainbow? Maybe blogging is for you! Some have called it an online journal, a web diary, an outlet of feelings, or even a business venture. Whatever you call it, it is blogging in some form or another.

Today, there was a “Basics of Blogging” course held in Cobb Hall. As we all sat around a circular conference table, I thought to myself, It’s a rainy morning. The sun is barely shinning, and all I feel like doing is curling up in bed with a hot cup of cocoa. These are all the thoughts that were running through my head. After attending the course, I realized that every thought that ran through my head could be potential material on my blog. I understood that I could write about any idea I wanted. So why haven’t I thought of blogging before? Why haven’t we all? Perhaps I didn’t have any idea how to start one.

The “Basics of Blogging” course was run by Mrs. Vicki L. Rogers, a witty service desk manager at Information Technology Services. She guided the other participants and me through a series of steps on how to get started. First, find a decent blogging provider that appeals to you. LiveJournal, Blogger, WordPress, Xanga, Tumblr and Webs are just a few to get you started. Step two is to sign up and learn the material. There are a plethora of designs, layouts, and topics to choose from for your blog. Any topic you can think of can be the basis of your blog. An important thing to consider is whether you want your blog to be private or public. “Remember that everything you put on the web is forever,” said Rogers, “for all time, for anyone to see!” In this modern day and age, employers, schools, friends, and family can potentially have access to the information that you put on the web. That includes photos and content. “If you would be embarrassed for someone to read your blog,” said Rogers, “maybe reconsider.”

Something to ponder on is all of the benefits of blogging online. Not only is it an emotional outlet but it can be great for business. Did you know that if you build and grow a popular blog, you could make money through advertising? That means tuition, book, and shopping money. If you have enough traffic on your website, some companies will approach you outright and pay you to advertise their products on your page. There are endless opportunities with blogging, and all you have to do is try.

In the basics of blogging presentation, there were people from all occupations: A professor of Physics, Business Management, and Mass Communications. There were First Year Experience professionals, an Ombuds Office professional, and even a Political Science and Planning professional. What was beautiful about this gathering was the unity we all shared through the possibilities of blogging. The physics professional could read blogs on the latest developments in his field, and there were moms in the class exchanging funny stories about their children. There was even a home economic teachers’ blog filled with step-by-step recipes and pictures.

From this thrilling experience, I learned the importance of having a voice in this big world and how blogging is easier then it seems. This “Basics of Blogging” seminar was one of many informational opportunities offered to us on campus. Courtesy of Vicki L. Rogers, she made this resource available to help students become connected. Check out www.westga.edu/~its for more information. And remember, you are an original, creative, unique thinker all by yourself. Start a blog!