Bachelor of Media and Communication alumni are embarking on careers in journalism, sport, communications and digital media, supported by a course that embeds industry experience throughout the degree.
Dr Brigid McCarthy, Course Coordinator, says it is vital to give students every opportunity for work experience so they can build the skills they’ll need to succeed.
“Students undertake authentic assessment tasks in our production studios and Mac Labs, guided by staff with industry experience,” she says. “They can also complete a 100-hour professional internship for credit and work in our campus newsroom, Upstart, building their skills as reporters, writers and producers.”
“These opportunities help students to hit the ground running with the skills and experience they need to start their careers.”
Finding a place in sports media
Bachelor of Media and Communication alumna, Ava Stone, majored in sports media and journalism. She says the practical learning opportunities throughout her degree were a highlight.
“Broadcast classes were far from boring. One week you’re at a press conference with a Melbourne Victory player, then the next you’re hosting the student run news channel,” she says.
“I also completed an internship with La Trobe Sport, working with the La Trobe University basketball teams on game days, clipping highlights and capturing video for social media,” she says.
Ava says being part of the action on game days helped confirm her career direction.
“Being there each week made me realise how much I enjoy working in that kind of environment and being part of making it all happen,” she says.
Since graduating, Ava has continued to build her experience in sports media, working for an Australian motorsport magazine while pursuing her long-term goal of working in Formula One broadcasting.
Communicating for community impact
Bachelor of Media and Communications (Journalism) graduate, Harrison Shortis completed a placement in the office of Member for Northern Victoria and Treasurer of Victoria, Jaclyn Symes MLC. There, he gained valuable experience in government communications.
“My placement was both insightful and rewarding,” he says. “It strengthened my written and verbal communication skills. It also highlighted the importance of public and community service. I gained valuable insight into working within an environment focused on serving the community.”
Harrison is now putting these skills into practice as Media and Communications Officer at Greater Shepparton City Council. He says the practical focus of his degree helped him transition confidently into the workforce.
“I’m enjoying creating and implementing communication strategies and seeing the positive impact they can have across the organisation and within the community.”
Turning experience into opportunity
For Isabella Chessler, industry experience played a direct role in securing her first full-time role.
Alongside her major in sports media and digital marketing, she completed an internship with Carlton Football Club.
“My internship at the Carlton Football Club had the biggest impact,” she says. “It gave me experience in an elite sporting environment, helped me build industry connections and developed my writing and editing skills.”
Like many students in the course, she graduated with professional connections and a portfolio of work. She is now working as a Social Media and Content Coordinator.
“I love working with athletes in an elite environment, especially female sports players. I enjoy promoting the work they do on and off the court,” she says.
A range of career pathways
From sport to local government and digital media, these graduate’s careers reflect the range of opportunities available to Bachelor of Media and Communication students and the value of embedding real-world experience as part of their studies.
