Author: Madi Stillwell, NCMC Business Instructor
The Business Department at North Central Missouri College has had an exciting and productive year. With the addition of Madi Stillwell (myself), we have been able to expand our Marketing course offerings and explore the growing impact of the internet on the field of marketing. We now offer Principles of Marketing each semester, as well as Internet Marketing and Marketing with Social Media. These courses align with our newly added emphasis area: Digital Media and Marketing.
The marketplace is constantly evolving, and the rapid advancements of the internet have accelerated these changes even further. Recognizing this, we have designed our courses to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to understand the modern marketplace and implement effective internet-based marketing strategies.
During the Spring 2025 semester, students in the Marketing with Social Media course were given a unique, hands-on opportunity: they were granted permission to create and publish content for North Central Missouri College’s official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. The semester began with students analyzing case studies and discussing key social media principles and their benefits in marketing. As their understanding deepened, they transitioned to producing real content for the college.
In each class, students developed ideas for interactive and engaging stories, designed digital flyers, and brainstormed TikTok content. They quickly discovered that while the college hosts numerous events, creating content could be both fun and rewarding. Seeing their work shared through official channels—and reposting it on their personal accounts—instilled a strong sense of pride. Their contributions not only enhanced the college’s digital presence but also extended its reach through their personal networks.
Students created Instagram and Facebook stories, published social media posts, and developed TikToks that were also shared on Facebook and Instagram stories. The experience proved valuable and enjoyable, with many students applying what they learned beyond the classroom. Some have already received requests to create brand materials and logos for local businesses.
We are excited about the potential for increased enrollment in these innovative course offerings. Our goal is to help students gain valuable insights into graphic design and marketing strategies that prepare them for success in today’s dynamic workforce. We plan to continue incorporating a social media takeover component into each semester of the Marketing with Social Media course. This opportunity enables students to create and publish professional-quality content on the college’s official platforms.
There is no substitute for hands-on experience, and this initiative delivers exactly that—while also keeping North Central Missouri College’s marketing fresh, relevant, and engaging for students. It has proven to be a mutually beneficial experience for both the students and the college.
Photo: Madi Stillwell