What are the Human Interest staff’s best classes this semester?
“My favorite class is introduction to sociology,” Maria Saunders, a freshman studying journalism, said. “I think sociology is a really interesting science, and it goes hand in hand with journalism. I keep learning new and eye-opening topics in the class.”
“My favorite class so far is my future of media class,” Fiona Petticrew, a sophomore studying journalism, said. “I like it because we have a discussion every week in small groups. I really enjoy debating and exchanging ideas with my peers. It’s interesting to see new perspectives on things as well.”
“My favorite class at Ohio University was communication law,” Maia LeClair, a senior studying journalism, said. “It was interesting to learn a lot about the history of journalism and free speech in the U.S. through court cases that still affect the press today.”
“My favorite class so far has been multiplatform reporting,” Ethan Herx, a junior studying photojournalism, said. “It's very similar to a lot of the writing I do here at The Post, and the final project was one I ended up using as a portfolio piece because of how proud I was of how it turned out.”
“Communications amongst cultures is my favorite class,” Libby Shoemaker, a freshman studying communications, said. “I love the involvement and discussion elements.”
“Intermediate video production is the best class,” Emma Snyder-Lovera, a senior studying media arts production, said. “I got to work as editor on a music video in partnership with Brick City Records, which was a really fun experience. We also got to work on a project for the Appalachian Community Grant Program, and it was very fulfilling to work with a real client.”
Who teaches the class, and what makes them stand out?
“Holly Ningard teaches my sociology class,” Saunders said. “She clearly loves what she does and knows so much about the content she's teaching. There is always a rabbit hole of connected stories to go down for what we're discussing in class.”
“My professor for future of media is Hans Meyer. He creates all of the interesting prompts for us to debate,” Petticrew said. “My discussion leader is Ebenezer Amartey, and he makes sure everyone is sharing their thoughts and encourages students to think outside the box.”
“Edith Dashiell, who has since retired, taught communication law,” LeClair said. “She made it enjoyable with her friendly attitude, extensive knowledge and interesting assignments.”
“A few different people teach multiplatform reporting. I took it with Bill Reader, and he was also my lab instructor,” Herx said. “He was able to work with all the students where they were at with their writing, and he was able to really help me with my own understanding of the AP Stylebook. He also helped me further my reporting skills, especially in the more news-focused side.”
“Rosemary (Rosy) Charway teaches communications amongst cultures,” Shoemaker said. “She brings such a fun, enjoyable element and lessons to class, which help me interactively learn about the material and my classmates.”
“I took social inequalities and social change with Sam Kizer,” Caitlyn Vance, a sophomore studying journalism, said. “He is the best professor I have had during my time at OU. I was lucky enough to have him for two courses … Kizer is a welcoming instructor and ensures students are doing well in his courses. He uses his lived experience and passionate personality to express his points. This is something that really helped me to stay invested in the content.”
“Andie Walla teaches intermediate video production,” Snyder-Lovera said. “She really pushes students to do their best while assisting them during the learning process. It’s really important how she allows students to work with real clients. The experience is invaluable.”
Bobcats curious about these classes can research further on OU’s course offerings page.





