Internships: PR student, Sally Mayberry, shares her internship experience
Part-time, full-time, paid or unpaid internships provide great experiences for students. The time given is often short, usually no more than three months, but the knowledge and the skills that the students develop are very valuable for their future career.
Deakin University's work integrated learning program allows students, in their last year of study, to obtain an opportunity to get a 'taste' of their field of study and its application in the workplace. They get the chance to undertake practical and realistic roles, tasks, and projects, which are related to the subject/s they do.
Sally Mayberry, a third year Public Relations student, said that her work experience at the Rural Workforce Agency Victoria (RWAV) has built on her confidence and that she is ready to face her future career.
"If I had gone straight into a job, I would have been really nervous. But, I feel really confident now that I've experienced this (internship)," Miss Mayberry said. "It has to start from somewhere, so it is just great if employers give students this opportunity. Once you put your foot in the door you are learning. Of course, you are going to start out a little bit rusty, but you have to start from somewhere."
A student may have the knowledge, skills, and expertise in their area of study. However, they still lack the experience of working in a professional environment which forces them to put everything they have studied into practice. It also enables them to interact and work with industry professionals, and develop employability skills.
As well as developing field study related skills, like writing skills, Miss Mayberry also developed general working skills such as administrative, communication, and self management skills throughout her internship.
"I learnt a lot about (Microsoft) Excel, how to use spreadsheets and mail merges. Most importantly, I gained a better understanding of media and publications as I was dealing with it every day. I learnt telephone skills as well. I was really nervous when I had to make a business phone call for the first time, but it is just something you pick up once you keep doing it", Miss Mayberry said.
Gaining practical experience and enhancing employability skills will give students an edge in the competitive graduate market.
"I consulted with my mentor about all the tasks that I had to do for the day, and if I had any issues or problems she was more than willing to help. She would explain everything to me and she taught me so much", Miss Mayberry said.
A good and reliable student can also benefit from the prospect of building a professional network that will lead to future employment. Miss Mayberry, for example, was offered part time work as soon as she finished her internship.
Written by Veronica Kirana, former international student at Deakin. Having recently completed her Master of Arts (Professional Communications), Veronica is seeking freelance work opportunities. For more information email: veronica_kirana@hotmail.com.
