Back To School Tips For Communication Students

By Neven Simpson, AWC UT Austin Student Chapter Guest Blogger

As another semester kicks off at the University of Texas and students struggle to get into the swing of things, here are a few back to school tips for all those Comm Students out there.

1. Finding an internship
Ask any professional or upperclassmen about the importance of landing an internship during your college career and they’ll tell you that these days having internship experience is imperative. In order to succeed in your job/internship hunt utilize the resources provided by the school of communications. You can also check out the Communications Career Services center for resume and cover letter tips, career advising, as well as for the latest internship postings. The links below will give you access to useful information regarding various career fields within the school of communication that will aid in your internship search.

• Advertising
• Consulting
• Entertainment
• Fundraising | Development | Non-Profit
• Government | Public Service
• Higher Education | Academics
• Social Media
• Journalism
• HR | Management | Sales | Marketing
• Meeting Planning | Hospitality
• Public Relations | Business Communication
• Speech Language Pathology | Audiology

Finally, don’t forget to mark your calendar for the Jobs and Internship Fair happening Wednesday, October 26th from 12pm – 5pm in DKR Texas Memorial Stadium North End Zone – The Club. This is a vital resource for anyone ranging from Freshmen to Seniors. Even if you’re not sure you’re ready for an job/internship, go and check it out because when you are ready you’ll know what to expect form the fair and you’ll be better prepared.

2. Get involved!
The University of Texas has over 2,000 registered student organizations, so as you can imagine the topics they cover ranges far and wide. Naturally this includes a plethora of organizations that can be beneficial for any type of Comm student. Listed below are the majority of communications related organizations you should check out. From TAG to PRSSA to Reel Women, you will undoubtedly be able to find a group with students aspiring to enter the same industry as you. Professional organizations like these will allow you to network with peers, learn about various industries outside of a classroom setting, which will give you real world insight into what each industry’s atmosphere is like, and will expose you leadership opportunities and industry professionals.

• Association for Women in Communication
• Advertising Graduate Council
• CAGE Student Production Resource Center
• Communication Council
• Communication Studies Graduate Community
• K V R X Student Radio
• University of Texas Hispanic Journalists
• Texas Advertising Group (TAG)
• TSM Advertising
• Public Relations Student Society of America – PRSSA
• Texas Student Television
• Reel Women Students

3. Stay informed
Whether you subscribe to various industry publications, pick up the Daily Texan on your way to class, or get your news from Twitter or blogs it doesn’t matter as long as you’re staying informed on what’s going on in the world. This not only allows you to keep up with industry trends, but it also provides a point of escape for us to get outside of the college bubble we all so often get caught up in. Finally, familiarize yourself with the College of Communications website. Here you will find an endless amount of information and resources that if maximized while at UT, can provide exponential opportunities.

4. Attend Comm School Events
The College of Communication holds special events and lectures open to the general public. These events typically happen at least once a month and allow you to hear from influential speakers and industry leaders. Covering a wide range of topics, this resource can open up your eyes to everything the industry of communications encompasses. Check out the College of Communication News and Events page to stay updated on when to expect these guest speakers.

5. Have some fun!
So much of your college experience comes from what you experience outside of the classroom. Take the time to explore Austin, form everlasting friendships, and discover your passions. Try to do something out of the ordinary as much as possible – don’t be afraid to put yourself in uncomfortable situations. The University of Texas and the city of Austin alike provide so many opportunities for self-discovery so take advantage of it. Check out the Austin Chronicle for local events and subscribe to the University Event Alert emails. The range of activities going on daily will blow you away.

Neven is the Vice President of Publications for the AWC UT Student Chapter, a member of Texas Advertising Group and serves as the Public Relations officer for Texas Spirits – an honorary service and spirit organization at UT. Her passions include running, cooking, the environment, and doing anything active outdoors!