Media Content Analysis:
Olivia Ruiz Write up
Tracking Period: September 30 – October 6, 2025
These findings reflect my personal media usage over the course of a week, based on manual tracking and memory rather than automated tools. I focused on the platforms I engage with most consistently, especially those tied to my daily routines and academic responsibilities.
One of the more surprising takeaways was how often I use YouTube, not just for entertainment, but as a background companion while getting ready, cooking, or winding down. I hadn’t realized how much passive viewing shaped my media landscape until I saw it laid out. Similarly, Spotify played a bigger role than expected, especially during commutes and study sessions. Music and podcasts are my go-to for emotional regulation and focus, but I often forget to count them as “active” media use.
I noticed that my engagement with Discord and iMessage far outweighed traditional social media. I rarely post or scroll through platforms like Instagram or TikTok unless prompted by a specific hobby or conversation. Most of my digital interactions are casual, hobby-driven, or school-related, such as coordinating with classmates or checking in with my lacrosse team. I also spend short bursts of time on Reddit and niche forums, especially for figure collecting and gaming news, but those visits are quick and often untracked.
Gaming was surprisingly low this week. Normally, I’d unwind with a few hours of cozy gameplay or watch someone stream, but between work and school deadlines, I leaned more on passive media like YouTube and music. I did catch a few Twitch streams and checked updates on upcoming releases, but actual playtime was minimal.
Device-wise, my phone is the hub for music, messaging, and short-form content. My laptop is reserved for schoolwork, professional communication, and longer-form media, especially YouTube deep dives or research. I tend to compartmentalize my usage: phone for comfort, laptop for productivity.
Overall, this snapshot reminded me how much my media habits are shaped by convenience and multitasking. I gravitate toward content that fits into the margins of my day, whether it’s a podcast during a commute or a video essay while cooking dinner. It’s less about the platform and more about how seamlessly it fits into my rhythm.
