Everyday we are bombarded with a slew of media in various forms that shape how we perceive ourselves and our surroundings. For me, I often find myself consuming videos and articles throughout the day covering topics such as cooking, technology, science, and politics. As of the most recent evaluation of my media consumption, I noticed I consumed much less digital media while I was abroad for my Global Intensive Experience. Beginning the day after the end of my program, I noticed my consumption to be as follows:

6:30 AM – As soon as I wake up, my alarms informs me it’s time to start my day with a signature and familiar chime! I sit up, dismiss the alarm and stretch in bed before starting my morning beauty routine.

8:15 AM – Washed, Fed, and Dressed for the day, I am already being overrun by the massive amount of push notification sent to my device informing me of the latest tweets, news, weather, and other content that may be of interest. I usually check a link or two during breakfast as I plan out the activities for the day.

10:15 AM – My study alarm usually activates around this time reminding me to begin working on any scholarly ambitions at the time; Around this time it was ensuring safe travel from the hotel to the Tokyo [Google Maps].

1:00 PM – I depart the hotel and am surrounded by signs (mostly in Kanji) so much of the media around me was difficult to consume without the assistance of technology! Traveling on the subway had me surrounded by advertisements that were difficult to engage with.

5:15 PM – I successfully arrived in Tokyo and found myself searching for inexpensive lodging to stay that night. I located an internet cafe via recommendations on YouTube (More Media!) and managed to secure myself a decent room.

8:30 PM – After an exhausting day of travelling and being surrounded by unfamiliar media, I was ready to get some well deserved rest. Of course, I had to knock out my daily Duolingo lesson before going to sleep to maintain my streak!

Although this is probably not the most detailed version of what my Daily Digital footprint looks like, it is a good example of the kinds of media I encounter daily. Between video content, articles, print ads, and social media I am often consuming content even when I am not aware I am. Being more Media Literate means consciously interacting with the various mediums I encounter beyond the surface which can be difficult to do at times. Regardless, I am excited to increase my Media Literacy and getting a better grasp of what my Daily Digital Print looks like!