The Deree Graduate Program in Digital Communication and Social Media teamed up once again with the University of South Florida (USF), a distinguished state research university ranked among the top 200 by the 2023 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, for an enriching educational trip on April 8-13, 2024, showcasing USF’s cutting-edge programs in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and computing. This initiative offers ACG students a firsthand look at the future of digital communication and immerses them in a vibrant cultural setting.
The trip kicked off with a deep dive into AI-driven marketing at USF’s St. Petersburg campus, where the Deree students worked in teams on projects and participated in the customized, full-day, certified “Mastering Content Marketing with AI” seminar. Guided by B2B digital marketing experts Alanna Jackson and Stacy Jackson, the seminar provided hands-on experience in crafting marketing strategies powered by AI, blending theoretical knowledge with real-world application. The event was organized by USF’s University-Community Partnerships & Corporate Training and Professional Education programs, with significant coordination from Director Mark Koulianos and Associate Director Nanci Dimis.
Further exploration took students to USF’s Behavioral AI Lab, where they interacted with advanced biometric technologies, including eye-tracking devices and EEG sensors, under the guidance of the Lab’s Director, Dr. Rob Hammond. This immersive visit illuminated the powerful ways AI can be employed to understand and influence consumer behavior, providing a practical perspective on theoretical concepts.
The tour continued at USF’s Innovative Education Digital Learning (InEd) Studios, an innovative hub where education meets technology. Here, students discovered how advanced technologies are being used to transform learning experiences, thanks to a team of nationally recognized learning designers dedicated to enhancing educational outcomes through digital content.
The educational trip was enriched by invaluable networking opportunities with luminaries from the communications and technology sectors whose shared experiences offered students a wealth of knowledge on career development in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Communications expert Lorie Briggs shared her expansive insights into navigating a successful career in modern communications, while digital journalism pioneer Joe Hamilton provided a look behind the curtain of his work. Podcast innovator Chris Krimitsos discussed breaking barriers in podcasting and building vibrant global communities of content creators.
The visit to Thrive DTSP capped off the trip, where Cory Adler, a leading expert in fundraising, demonstrated how coworking spaces can serve as hubs for innovation and community engagement. Students gained valuable insights into community engagement, entrepreneurship, fundraising, publicity, communication, networking, and purpose-driven business. This experience inspired students to consider the impact they can make through innovative business practices and think critically and creatively about their future careers and the impact they can have in their communities.
Here are what some of our participating Deree students had to say about their experience:
What an amazing experience! The seminar at USF helped me understand the implications of AI in digital marketing, and practice with numerous tools and techniques while working on a fantastic team project. We realized how helpful AI can be to streamline various processes in our work. USF is a fantastic university, and the entire experience was memorable and unique, making it a standout moment in my academic journey! (Angeliki Kotsiopoulou)
The AI seminar in Florida was transformative. It expanded my understanding of AI and its applications in digital marketing, and the practical sessions were incredibly beneficial. I also loved the Behavioral Lab and all the people we met. The trip was not only educational but also a fantastic networking opportunity (Afroditi Iliopoulou)
The trip and the seminar were an absolute delight and the knowledge I gained exceeded my expectations. As a supporter of AI and a keen follower of AI news, I was happy to participate in a truly remarkable seminar by two great instructors. What I loved the most was the opportunity to experiment with actual AI tools! Also, this trip created some of the most memorable moments of my graduate life (Christos Tasoulas)
This experience was valuable for both my professional and personal growth. Moreover, the trip was a fantastic bonding experience for our group. We spent quality time together, immersing in the local culture. It was an unforgettable experience that left a lasting impact on all of us. I am grateful for having this opportunity! (Christos Petratos)
From AI labs to innovative digital classrooms and insightful seminars, Deree students not only gained a wealth of knowledge but broadened their academic horizons, providing them with a visionary perspective on the potential of digital technologies in communication and beyond.