Memorable Messages for Navigating College Life

Abstract

This manuscript details an investigation of memorable messages that help students navigate college life using a control theory framework. Researchers conducted face-to-face interviews with 61 undergraduate students who recalled a specific memorable message that helped them as they navigated college. Results of this formative study show the majority of participants’ memorable messages were academic, and approximately 70% reported changing their behavior when recalling the message. Findings include categories of messages, challenges and topics, message sources, and changes in behavior and attitudes as a result of recalling the message. Additionally, the authors discuss responses to the study findings by college personnel that highlight the applicability of the research.

Keywords:

• College
• Transitions
• Memorable Messages
• Control Theory

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Samantha Nazione

Samantha Nazione is a doctoral student in the Department of Communication at Michigan State University

Carolyn Laplante

Carolyn LaPlante is a doctoral student in the Department of Telecommunication, Information Studies and Media at Michigan State University

Sandi W. Smith

Sandi W. Smith is a Professor in the Department of Communication at Michigan State University

Jennifer Cornacchione

Jennifer Cornacchione is a doctoral student in the Department of Communication at Michigan State University

Jessica Russell

Jessica Russell is a doctoral student in the Department of Communication at Michigan State University

Cynthia Stohl

Cynthia Stohl is a Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of California, Santa Barbara