Advertisements in the Neighborhood

                 Living on campus seems to increase exposure to advertisements; however, the content of these advertisements is unique to any other area I have been. There are advertisements hidden almost everywhere, but they are by no means overbearing or imposing on the surroundings. On my walk, I encountered posters for movies and concerts next to the Jot Travis building, ads for tutoring on the northeast corner of the Quad, and a board specifically designed for student advertisements on the first floor of the Joe Crowley Student Union. The advertisements are relatively small, considering the ads we often get bombarded with while driving on the freeway or window-shopping. They are, of course, intended to be enticing, but they are simultaneously informative and non-intrusive. The advertisements are often for events, clubs, services, and opportunities on campus. Because the intent of the ads seems to entice participation, their nature seems less manipulative and more interest-based; innocent, if you will.

                For this reason, I definitely think the advertisements in my neighborhood reflect its values. The values of a university are academic and socially encouraging; they push students to explore their interests and find new passions. This is in line with my values as well—I appreciate encouragement, but I am wary of manipulation, as I find it disrespectful and uninviting. I am definitely more drawn to an ad that invites me to meet new people or engage my mind; thankfully, this is appropriate in a university setting. This is also reflected in their appearances—the advertisements are noticeable, but not so large and obnoxious that they become common knowledge.

                After considering this prompt on my walk, I was surprisingly refreshed by what I had encountered. I highly respect the encouraging and exciting atmosphere on this campus. Ironically, perhaps all it took was a little advertising.