Emma Graham

What did you personally gain from your studies?

One of the most important things I have gained through my studies at UTS is my passion for learning. Through my experience studying and my experience in the industry, I am able to acknowledge the importance of an open attitude to constant learning and development. I have entered into the industry ready to embrace any opportunity to develop my knowledge, allowing me to push myself and develop at a professional level.

What did you enjoy most about your degree?

One of the most challenging aspects of the degree is student collaboration. Any communication student is extremely familiar with the daunting prospect of working within a group. However, surprisingly, this became something I grew to love about my studies, seeing me form great working and personal relationships, while achieving strong uni results. In particular, collaborative working in subjects that exposed us to real work in the industry was an amazing opportunity. It was an opportunity for students to bring their unique strengths to the table, in an industry relevant environment, work together to achieve results, and form life long friendships.

Not only was team work something I enjoyed at uni, it has given me the essential foundation for working collaboratively and building relationships that is so essential in the industry.

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

Studying at UTS, I completed the degree feeling that my studies had well equipped me to enter into the communications industry. However, this preparation was not limited to a thorough understanding of communication, Public Relations and the Australian media landscape. The degree equipped me with the essential skills of taking initiative, analytical research, having passion for my work, and the ability to work within a team, that are so invaluable in any industry.

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

During my first two years of my degree, I wasn’t overly invested in university or my studies. I went to class and completed my assignments, but never really embraced the tertiary culture and opportunities. During my third year, I began to embrace these opportunities and invest in the learning environment, something that allowed me to thrive academically, socially, and inevitably lead me to the perfect platform to launch my career.

To any students studying this degree, my advice is to embrace any opportunity you have. Fight to prove yourself and push your boundaries, and you will be prepared for what is an amazing industry awaiting you.