Why I chose communications: My journey and what I hope to learn
As Elm’s newest intern, when Mel asked me to write a blog about why I initially wanted to join the communications industry, I found myself reflecting back to Year 12 and the moment I was facing my UAC choices.
Where it all began
Stepping out of high school and into college, my Plan A was to become a lawyer, and Plan B was to become a psychologist—two drastically different paths, which just shows how uncertain I was about my future.
Communications first came onto my radar when I was much younger, and would look at organisations with terrible public relations and think to myself, “Wow, I could do so much better.” This was a very arrogant and naive mindset, and I have learned that public relations is a very complicated, difficult and competitive industry. Growing up, I would often watch television shows where women in public relations were depicted in a negative light (think Samantha from Sex and the City), but I thought they were fabulous. If I’m honest with myself, I have always loved communications and the storytelling aspect that seemed to weave through every public relations and strategic communications decision. I realised that I didn’t necessarily want to be a part of the story; I wanted to create these narratives for people, events, organisations, and more.
At the time, I was too naive to think I could turn a communications degree into a stable career. The overwhelming number of career options that came with this field stressed me out. I would dread the question, “So, what exactly is a communications degree, and what will you do after graduation?” Obviously, I had a plan, but the constant questioning made me question pursuing the field. Over time, though, I’ve come to love the vast array of career opportunities a communications degree opens up.
However, I realised that this is what I wanted to study when I was talking to a friend just a week before I had to apply to universities. We were discussing our passions, and she suggested I apply for a Bachelor of Media and Communications, and something just clicked. I can honestly say that decision has brought me so much happiness, and I have found a deep passion for this industry.
Learning through doing in my internship
Elm Communications is my second and last internship, so I am trying to soak up every piece of knowledge and advice Mel and Amy can offer. I have enjoyed learning about strategic communications and crisis management, but thinking that theory is similar to hands-on practice would be a bit silly of me. While I’m nervous about providing high-quality, industry-standard work, I am more excited to be guided by two incredibly experienced women as I finish my studies.
When I first met Mel and Amy for my pre-internship interview, they asked me what I wanted to learn during the internship. I told them I wanted them to throw everything they do at me so I could learn as much as possible during my 100 hours. Even just two weeks into my internship, they’ve kept their word and involved me in all aspects of their work. Even when I am simply observing, I have already learned so much, which has eased some of my anxiety as graduation quickly approaches. I know I won’t be a complete fish out of water during my first real job.
This is my final year at university and what ultimately feels like my last chance to be guided gently through the work and the industry. I am excited to learn, make mistakes, make connections, and soak up all the advice Elm has to offer and carry it with me as I start my career journey.
My advice
If I could give any advice to someone who is about to start their first internship, I would tell them exactly what I would tell my past self and also my self today: do not let self doubt and imposter syndrome stop you from getting the most out of this experience. Everyone feels lost and scared during this time but the truth is no one expects you to know everything or even anything. Internships are a time to learn and you’re allowed to use this time to make mistakes. The most important thing is to be willing to learn and understand that you’re no longer the smartest person in the room (that’s a good thing).
To any communications specialists still reading this and wondering what attributes to look for when hiring an intern, I would say a willingless to learn. Don’t be scared to take someone aboard that you will have to teach; invest in the new generations of communication professionals and reak the benefits.