Ava Landry
Communication Samples
LSU Distinguished Communicator Program
The LSU Distinguished Communicator program is a distinction offered to LSU students for achievement in communication. LSU offers one of the only university programs of this nature in the nation. Through the Distinguished Communicator program, candidates undergo a variety of training experiences to develop their writing, speaking, visual and technological communication skills.
In order to earn the Distinguished Communicator medal, students must:
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Contract with a faculty advisor and meet regularly to ensure quality of all program components
Attend yearly housekeeping meetings
Earn a B- or higher in at least 4 C-I courses – minimum course mode credits: 3 written, 2 spoken, 1 visual, and 1 tech and complete the LSU Communicator Certificate
Participate in a minimum of 1 ePortfolio workshop designed to improve communication skills
Participate in experiences beyond the classroom that enable you to practice effective communication skills and prepare for your future field, including at least one which enables you to serve in a leadership role
Complete an approved public portfolio showcasing your communication skills
Be in good academic and disciplinary standing with the university.
Written Communication
Through my coursework, I have improved my written communication skills through academic papers. I have taken several  courses that have emphasized methods of effectively communicating thoughts and ideas through words. Some samples of my work are linked below.
ENGL 2231: Gender & Horror
This course explored the intersection of masculinity and fear in modern horror films. We evaluated several films' depictions of masculinities to answer broader questions about the texts and the horror genre while using academic texts on feminism. For my final essay, I argued how the film Hereditary portrays gender issues as an inevitable reality of a modern society by using critical text and examples from the film. This assignment developed my argument skills and ability to interpret academic text and apply it to various examples.
ME 4933: Additive Manufacturing
MEÂ 4933Â provided an overview of additive manufacturing techniques. We discussed various applications of additive manufacturing and performed research on emerging technologies. One of these papers was focused on the use of complex shape algorithms to better model 3D surface geometry, linked below. This assignment helped me to explain complex mathematical applications to an audience.
TechnologicalÂ
Communication
Several of my courses have focused on the use of technological communication. I have developed the ability to utilize technology to clearly portray my thoughts and ideas. Some samples of these courses are described below.
ART 2050: Digital Art
This course focused on utilizing digital tools to create artistic pieces. We used the Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop and Illustrator, to develop several pieces of work. This class not only taught me how to use common industry software, but improved my ability to translate concepts into the digital space through the aid of technology. The piece where I practiced this most was my Digital Self Portrait, where I utilized Adobe Illustrator to interpret a photograph as a digital piece of art.
CM 1020: Introduction to Engineering Graphics
CM 1020 reviewed common practices for engineering graphics and drawings. During the course, we learned to use SolidWorks modeling software to develop engineering models and drawings of 3D objects. We focused on how to properly label and dimension engineering drawings and the common conventions to follow. This course helped to develop my ability to detail engineering projects with technological tools. Our most intensive project was our Flood Gate Design Project, which was a design project that required unique models and drawings.
Visual Communication
My coursework has emphasized ways to best present information visually. I have been able to improve my skills of successfully communicating through visual means. Some examples of my work are shown below.
ART 2050: Digital Art
ART 2050 emphasized the communication of narrative through visual means. We practiced telling stories through our pieces in several assignments, one of which resulted in a piece "Alien Abduction." The focus of this project was to utilize various imagery to convey a story using only visual means. This course helped to develop the skill of strategically selecting and manipulating imagery to convey ideas.
ME 4611: Thermal Systems Lab
This course focused on presenting information in a visual way through the use of PowerPoint slides. Each week required us to improve upon our presentation skills. The best example of my improvement is my presentation of how thermal systems are utilized in theme parks, linked below.
Spoken Communication
ME 4611: Thermal Systems Lab
ME 4611 was a lab course that had a very unique method of presenting information. Instead of typical lab reports, we presented our data through a series of rotating weekly reports. We were also able to practice answering impromptu table topic questions in front of a group and presenting our own research topics. For my individual report topics, I presented on how thermal systems are utilized in theme park special effects. This course helped me to improve my presentation skills and learn how to best hold an audience's attention while presenting information through speech.