Finding purpose and passion through communication

From floristry to public relations, Nicole is blending creativity and strategy to build a career that makes a difference.

Balancing part-time study with work, volunteering, and campus life, Bachelor of Media and Communication (majoring in Public Relations) student Nicole has found her stride at the University of Newcastle.  She’s now using her studies to turn creativity into purposeful communication.

After finishing school, Nicole decided to explore her interests before committing to university. During that time, she founded her own floristry business, Acacia Floral Designs, which she continues to run alongside her studies. But it was her love of writing, and a nudge from her mum, that ultimately inspired her to pursue public relations.

“My mum kept asking if I’d ever thought about a career in media as she encouraged me to pursue writing professionally,” Nicole says. “When I landed on public relations, mum was overjoyed!”

When Nicole read the Bachelor of Media and Communication degree overview on the University’s website, everything clicked. She applied the next day and hasn’t looked back since.

Nicole began her study journey through the Open Foundation pathway, using it to ease back into academic life and build confidence before starting her degree.

Throughout her degree, Nicole has embraced every opportunity to get involved and make an impact. As a program representative for the Bachelor of Media and Communication, she’s been the voice for her peers and a bridge between students and staff.

One of her proudest achievements has been founding the University’s first Media and Communication Club (MCC), which will officially launch in 2026.

“My goal for 2025 as a program rep was to create more engagement for students, which I’m proud to say I’ve achieved by establishing the Media and Communication Club. Stay tuned!”

Her involvement doesn’t stop there, Nicole also volunteers with Uni Crew, contributes to 2NUR FM, and has been a member of UNSA clubs like Opus and the Book Club. She even finds time for social netball at The Forum and plans university events through her part-time job.

Pursuing higher education as a non-school leaver was a bold decision, but one Nicole says has paid off in every way.

“Four years of study out of a 30-year career seemed like a reasonable trade to me,” she reflects. “Since starting my studies and gaining part-time employment at the University, I’ve grown immensely as a professional.”

The experience has strengthened not only her knowledge but also her resilience, critical thinking, and leadership skills.

“If I can survive multiple assignment deadlines, social sacrifice, 2-minute noodles, sleep deprivation, relationships, bills, car breakdowns and a never-ending pile of laundry - then I’m confident I can manage any project!”

Looking ahead, Nicole hopes to use her PR degree to craft communication strategies which make a social impact.

“I’d love to plan communication strategies to meet humanitarian objectives within a not-for-profit or environmental organisation,” she says.

She believes the field of public relations can be a powerful force for good.

“PR is highly adaptable and can be used to create positive change in the right organisation. I’m excited to use my degree in a rewarding role that contributes to the community.”

For those thinking about starting their own university journey, Nicole shares a piece of advice from her late grandfather, words that have guided her through the toughest moments.

“He told me, ‘The main thing is, you have realised what it is you want to do, some people will never know.’”

“It made me realise that it’s a privilege to even have a passion or something you’re interested in, if something is calling you, it’s for a good reason.”