And that's a wrap, I got the job!

"And that's a wrap! After completing a month-long internship at Ellenbrook Christian College I have successfully completed the work experience component of PUBR3002. But in reality, I've done so much more than that. Not only have I been offered the job, I've gained such valuable experience that I'd be more than happy to kiss the UC's feet. Gross, I know."

The beautiful flowers, cards and gifts I received on the last day of my internship at ECC.

 

 My second to last week at Ellenbrook Christian College began like any other. I signed in, checked my emails and timetable and then headed straight into an events management/public relations meeting to take minutes...

At the close of the meeting I stood up to head back to my desk when the Business Manager asked if he could speak to me in private. I was beyond delighted when he handed me an employment contract and told me that the College (and most importantly my internship supervisor) were extremely impressed with my work and would therefore love to have me as part of the team. 

After getting a little bit teary (yep, I'm that girl) and saying thank you about a thousand times, I headed back to my desk and sat there for what was probably about 15 minutes thinking about how great my internal appraisal mark was going to be and how it'd hopefully aid me in achieving a distinction or even high distinction. 

Upon beginning my day's tasks however, it dawned on me that PUBR3002 isn't just about securing a graduate position. Sure, it's an awesome achievement if you do and I congratulate all of you that do so, but PUBR3002 isn't just about getting the job. It's about experiencing and learning HOW to do the job. 

This all dawned on me when I began my first task of the day. The College was three days out from hosting one of its' major events for the year and I was assigned event management tasks such as designing and printing event signage and making contact with/confirming logistics with sound technicians and the like. 

As I sat there and began prioritising my tasks, it dawned on me that just two weeks ago, tasks such as these would have been extremely daunting. Three weeks into my internship however and I was confidently completing tasks such as this with ease. 

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Curtin and believe that the University has been successful in delivering me a well-rounded theoretical education. However, I can honestly say that PUBR3002 has been my saving grace in terms of practical application. 

The amount of times my heart had dropped when I read job descriptions and the infamous words read, "A minimum of one months experience needed" is mind-blowing. After completing the practical component of PUBR3002 however I am more than happy to say that I am now able to apply for (and compete for) jobs that require previous experience. 

PUBR3002 is a demanding, time-consuming and at sometimes downright infuriating unit.  But on the most part it is the most rewarding and invaluable preparation that any public relations student could gain before entering the workforce. And for making me do this unit yes, I'd happily kiss the UC's feet. 
 

 Success

And that's a wrap! 

Emily.