Ask ten professionals to define new media and you are liable to get ten very different answers. In short, no matter what they consider to be a part of new media, the overriding hallmark of new media is the shift from one to many communications to a many to many model. Rather than one source or group of select sources providing information to the masses, individuals provide information to many other individuals. New media studies focus on the personalized aspect of how today's society interacts with information. As a profession, new media requires a complex understanding not only of technology, but also of how people use that technology.

New media studies seek to show students the big picture of how information, not products, services, or news media spin, drives market trends, decides the value of news items, and ushers in new technologies. To succeed in today's Web 2.0 new media-focused society, students must learn not only current technology, but continuously update that knowledge. As the technologies behind new media evolve and the tastes of individuals move through their ever-changing phases, new media professionals must stay forever ahead of the curve. As such, learning new media is not a one-time task. It is a continuous process.

If all of this sounds like a great and wondrous adventure, then you are just the candidate for new media studies. However, this journey lasts a lifetime. It is not something you can just learn one time. Rather it is as much a way of life as it is a profession. Some of the most successful new media professionals not only develop technology and/or put it to use for business or organizational purposes, but also use it themselves. In fact, many new media professionals help set the very trends they monitor. This is one of the few fields where a professional's person habits help influence industry trends.

New media studies can be the start of a lucrative and interesting career path. You can either work behind the scenes or out in front, in the direct spotlight. Whether working on technology development, exploring creative expression through graphic design or other content creation, or becoming the face of an outlet's brand, there is a home in new media for every personality type and skill set. With the right training and credentials, a career in new media offers a wealth of opportunities on the cusp of new technology, social media, and innovative communications.

For students with a particular talent or gift for new media, exploring new media studies and degree options is just the beginning. Often, these students absorb all there is to know about their field and then push the boundaries even further. However, before they can push boundaries, they first need a solid foundation. Completing post secondary educational programs lays the beginning of that foundation. Working with industry leaders and experienced professionals provides the next layer. Continuing your studies as new technologies and practices are developed provides the third. After the third level, students are prepared to start pushing the boundaries and developing their own advancements in ideas, technology, or approaches.