Laura Blasdale
Graduate, Advanced Diploma Business (Marketing) major in Public Relations

Laura's thoughts on her time at APM are below:

1. What made you choose to study at APM?
   
   The short length of the course - three years of uni squished into a year is the way I describe it to most people. Also the internship. Practical experience is vital, especially in the public relations industry.
   
   
2. What were you doing previously to studying at APM?
   
   Travelling! Prior to this I conducted a number of work experience stints at various PR, film and entertainment companies. I also worked as a Junior Account Coordinator at Verve Communications.
   
   
3. What did you enjoy about the course you studied?
   
   The internship was amazing - it opened so many doors for me, it was also really exciting to utilise the theoretical skills I had learned in class. Media Training and PR Fundamentals gave me an excellent insight into the real world of PR.
   
   
4. What was your goal when you enrolled at APM?
   
   To get a satisfying job that I enjoy.
   
   
5. What is your current job title, company name and job description?
   
   PR Consultant at WordStorm PR. I am involved with media liaison, pitching, writing press releases, events and client contact… to name a few.
   
   
6. How did you find your current job?
   
   Online - www.seek.com.au.
   
   
7. What were the most successful aspects of the APM course?
   
   The internship combined with studies. Many of the assignments were also practical, so that helps enormously.
   
   
8. What advice do you have for other APM students hoping to break into your field?
   
   Work experience and the internship is a golden opportunity to meet people in the industry. Even if you don't get a job from your internship (I didn't), getting to know people and making contacts is vital. Cold call people and ask to meet up for a coffee and a quick chat about what they look for in an employee; they will appreciate it so much. It also helps you to get rid of those nerves when it comes to interview time. You never know… they may have a position available at the end of the year! Also, don't just take a job for the sake of it. I know it's exciting to have the opportunity of gaining a full-time job, but ultimately, you've done the course, you want to be happy in the job you're in. Work hard is my advice! It's not school, you've chosen this course for a reason, so make the most of it, it's only a year!
   
   
9. Did you find it easy or hard to get a job after you graduated?
   
   I was lucky. I applied for a job after having a look on www.seek.com.au to see what sort of positions were available in PR. I had an initial interview and then after Christmas, had a second interview and got the job. I had had many meetings with people throughout the year, and wasn't nervous for the interview, I was honest and showed my personality.
   
   
10. What other career goals or aspirations do you have?
    
    I am quite young for the industry so my plan is to work my way up to an Account Manager within the next two-three years. I would one day like to own my own Public Relations company.
    
    
11. What other initiatives have you taken to help your career?
    
    Experience, experience, experience! Every little bit counts! It may seem like a drag at the time but it's worthwhile in the long run. Employers like to see that you're prepared to work hard. Meet up with directors of companies or the HR department - whoever does the recruiting. Find out about the company, what they look for in an employee, get your name and face known, it will help you develop professional communication skills and gain a greater understanding of the industry!