This week I had the opportunity to interview HCFSU Social Media Director, Becca McCandless. She talks about balancing schoolwork and managing social media in a pandemic, while never losing sight of her creativity.
Her Campus (HC): Tell us a little about yourself and your background in social media.
Becca McCandless (BM): I started using social media as a fun way to connect with my friends and keep them updated about things going on in my life. Then one of my best friends from high school, Adrian, showed me how creative you can be on these platforms. It wasn’t until then that I started experimenting with different locations and outfits to create something that I am proud of! He still helps me with all of my pictures, and we’ve created some really cool posts on Instagram (shhh, don’t tell the other social media platforms, but Instagram is my favorite!). From there, I’ve gotten more and more passionate about social media. I’ve scored a couple of brand deals through a program called Campus Trendsetters, and I wanted to take on a more professional role, which is why I applied to become the Social Media Director here at HCFSU.
HC: What does a typical day in your life look like?
BM: On weekdays, I try to wake up around 8:30 every morning to get ready for the day! From 9:00 to 11:00 I have my internship with FSU’s College of Arts and Sciences, where I write articles and create social media posts about news, events and people involved in the college. Then, I go to class, maybe take a coffee break and get some homework done before any meetings I have in the evenings. Since it’s spooky season, I’ve been watching the 31 Nights of Halloween on Freeform constantly, too.
HC: What is your favorite part of being the social media director for HCFSU?
BM: My favorite part is being able to work with a wonderful group of women who are also passionate about Social Media. It is so much fun working with everyone on the team and seeing what we can create. Also, I find it rewarding to be involved with social media on a more professional level so I can learn even more!
HC: How do you stay on top of the latest social media trends?
BM: Honestly, I just scroll through my social media feeds. I probably spend way too much time on my phone, but it’s worth it. I find a lot of inspiration from other people’s creativity.
HC: What’s been the biggest challenge managing our chapter’s social media during a pandemic?
BM: The biggest challenge by far is trying to function remotely. Not only would it be so much easier to complete different plans and ideas we have for our social media platforms, but I also miss being able to see everyone face to face. Our creativity has NOT been affected though, and I have my wonderful social team to thank for that!
HC: What advice do you have for anyone wanting to grow their social media presence?
BM: I have a lot of ideas here, but I think the two most important tips are to engage with others on social media and just be yourself. Comment and like other people’s posts and interact with people who used the same hashtags as you. But, remain authentic during all of this and let your personality shine through!
HC: Who is your go-to influencer and why?
BM: I’m going to cheat here and list a few because I honestly can’t decide. The first is Bria Celest, (@queenofvacay) because I can live vicariously through her beautiful travel feed. Recently, she has been showing off her cooking skills because she can’t travel for obvious reasons, and I wish she would invite me over for dinner. Plus, her puppy is super cute. I also love to follow @minamarlena, because her feed is just gorgeous. She has serious outfit goals, too. I’m also going to mention @Snitchery because she is amazing and unapologetically herself.
HC: Where do you see yourself after graduation?
BM: After graduation, I want to be working for a publication or newspaper somewhere. I am passionate about my writing, and I love to tell the stories of others. Another dream of mine is to teach English abroad in either Spain or Japan (I am working toward a TESOL certificate), but due to the current global pandemic, I think that is something I’ll have to wait on.
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