Student Highlights
Communication gives flexibility to Maya’s career path
When examining her options for tertiary study upon leaving high school in 2018, Maya was unsure of what career she wanted to pursue. Having a wide variety of interests across a range of subjects, she was looking for a course that would allow her to keep her options open and adapt as her studies progressed.
The native Novocastrian found what she was looking for close to home with the Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations) at the University of Newcastle. She was attracted by the spectrum of subjects available within the degree and the flexibility of future career opportunities it made available.
“The Communication degree is flexible and broad,” Maya said.
“I have many interests including arts, travelling and politics. I couldn’t think of a career where I could continue to explore all my interests, but Communication offers flexibility.
“The program seemed more practical than other universities, and Newcastle has reputable exchange programs. I enrolled in a Diploma in French, so I was able to learn a language, which is not only an advantageous skill for the resume, but a fun experience.
Maya said there were many highlights on her study journey at Newcastle, including access to modern facilities and equipment, or learning industry standard software packages such as Adobe Creative Suite.
Alongside her studies, she has undertaken several industry-related work experience opportunities.
“I was accepted to work for the University library as an intern for six months in 2020,” Maya said.
“I worked in the marketing team, promoting LinkedIn learning to students, so they could improve their professional skills.
“This internship was extremely rewarding. It was a fantastic stepping stone in the public relations/marketing industry before I even graduated from university.
“I now work as a Communications Assistant for NUServices, which supports the hospitality and retail venues on campus.”
Overall, Maya believes the supportive and approachable university staff have been a hallmark of her time at university.
“Tutors have the power to shape your time at the university, so I have been lucky to have had such a wonderful experience,” she said.
Maya now has a clearer picture of where she wants to be and has a career goal of being a public relations executive for a large organisation.
“I would like to work in the arts and music sector and would love to be based overseas so I can use my French.
“Whilst I thought I would be nervous to finish, I am very excited to start a full-time job in communications,” Maya said.
Study a Bachelor of Communication at the University of Newcastle
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Maya Borthwick
Flexibility and broadness, the reason Maya chose Communication.
I couldn’t think of a career where I could continue to explore all my interests, but Communication offers flexibility.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.