Georgia Stanton

What degree did you study and why did you choose to study at UTS?

I studied a Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Public Communication)/ Bachelor of Laws, choosing the Public Relations stream within the Public Communication major. I chose to study at UTS for a few reasons. UTS had an impressive industry reputation in both public relations and commercial law, and the course structure and style of my degree had a good balance between theory and industry focus. And the location, in the heart of the city, provided the campus life I was looking for.

What did you personally gain from your studies?

During my studies I gained some great friendships, skills in effective study and time management, an informed perspective of what I might like to do professionally — and a constant craving for Japanese food.

What did you enjoy most about your degree?

I really enjoyed working closely with great teaching staff in a welcoming and demanding environment. The opportunities to collaborate and socialise with other students are also a great asset.

How did studying your degree at UTS prepare you for your career?

The majority of my public communications subjects had assessments that required me to approach and engage with industry professionals to create communications campaigns for real life clients. This allowed me to develop a professional network, and gain experience with a practical focus. Throughout my degree I also learnt and practiced how to prepare various communications materials, mainly focusing on media releases and strategic plans.

Is there any advice you can give to students who are studying this degree?

At the beginning of my degree the reading requirement seemed daunting and overwhelming, especially because of the academic language and the length of some readings. My advice to future students is to be persistent with your readings because over time your skim reading skills will develop — and you’ll be able to tell for yourself what is ‘required’ and what’s just nice to have.

Did you do a lot of work experience whilst studying?

Whilst studying I tried to keep a healthy balance between prioritising university work, relaxing/travelling and getting work experience. I knew that I wanted to gain experience in public relations and law to help make the inevitable career decisions at the end of my degree more informed and hopefully easier. In my second year of university I got an internship at a sports and entertainment media agency. I then got a casual ongoing job as a paralegal in a commercial law firm. Then finally in the summer holidays before my final year I was successful in gaining an internship at the Australian Communications and Media Authority. I decided to do this as I had enjoyed the subject Regulation Communication and throughout my studies I was always interested in how communication in the government sector operated.

Do you have any personal, professional accomplishments that you can advise?

Throughout my studies I was involved in community activities. I joined the Peer Network Leader Community at UTS, held the position of Community Ambassador on the Law Student Society was an active NSW Surf lifesaver throughout my degree.