The UP College of Mass Communication launches a groundbreaking elective class titled “Celebrity Studies: Taylor Swift in Focus” under the BA Broadcast Media Arts and Studies degree program for the second semester of the school year 2023 to 2024, announced on its Facebook page on Thursday, January 11.
Dr. Cherish Aileen Brillon, a respected figure in the field, will lead the Special Topics in Broadcasting class, delving into the conception, construction, and performance of Taylor Swift as a celebrity. In addition to analyzing Swift’s prolific career spanning over a decade, the course will explore the intersections of media with class, politics, gender, and race, along with themes of success and mobility-related fantasies.
Dr. Brillon, in an interview with Philstar L!fe, expressed her enthusiasm for the class, stating that it goes beyond the typical examination of a celebrity’s career. The course promises a critical analysis that extends into broader societal contexts, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the cultural impact of Taylor Swift.
While similar courses have been offered globally on Swift’s contributions to the music industry, Dr. Brillon’s class is the first of its kind at a Philippine university. Noting the Philippines’ reputation as a “Taylor Swift nation,” Dr. Brillon expressed her surprise at the uniqueness of the offering.
The class is expected to attract students passionate about media studies, celebrity culture, and contemporary social dynamics. The UP College of Mass Communication looks forward to contributing to a deeper understanding of the cultural and societal dimensions of one of the world’s most iconic celebrities.
