Rita Jaber
Graduate, Advanced Diploma of Business (Marketing) major in Public Relations (2005)

Rita’s thoughts on her time at APM are below:

1. What made you choose to study at APM?
   
   I had previously completed my BA Arts Degree at the University of Sydney and felt that university only gave me knowledge and that wasn’t enough for me to get the job that I wanted. The internship that was offered by APM was possibly the most enticing factor as I knew that 90% of the time, employers were looking for somebody with some sort of industry experience.
   
   
2. What were you doing previously to studying at APM?
   
   I was working three part time jobs. I was working in retail at a store at Sydney International Airport and also in a clothing store. I also did some waitressing!
   
   
3. What did you enjoy about the course you studied?
   
   The quality of information that was taught to us by the teaching staff was brilliant. The fact that most of the lecturers were working successfully in the industry added credibility and a sense of reality to the information that was given to us.
   
   The friendships and bonds that we formed with the teachers and students were amazing too. It helped make the year more enjoyable and it helped make the work easier. The teachers were available on email or phone if we had any questions regarding exams or assignments.

   The job opportunities that were posted through email also gave us a sense of security throughout the year. The networking nights were also a great way to introduce ourselves to people in the industry and gain valuable tips and contacts from them.

   Finally the internship experience was great. I completed my internship with Australian Airlines where I was helping out with PR, marketing, sponsorship and many other ad-hoc tasks. The people I met and the recognition I received for my good work was priceless.
   

4. What was your goal when you enrolled at APM?
   
   To achieve a minimum of a credit average for each subject and to find a job in sports marketing and PR after my course was completed.
   
   
5. What is your current job title, company name and job description?
   
   I am currently working for the NSW Sports Federation in marketing and PR.
   
   
6. Describe what your current role involves?
   
   My main tasks involve organising events, marketing small projects, sponsorship work, writing media releases, liaising with states sporting organisations and main sponsors, accounting, dealing with queries from the public and from clients, assisting our CEO and general housekeeping duties.
   
   
7. How did you find your current job?
   
   One of my fellow class mates was completing her internship at the Federation and introduced me to her boss at the end of year networking night. I emailed him later and asked could we meet to discuss the industry further. We met a few times and a short time after he asked me to come join the team.
   
   
8. What were the most successful aspects of the APM course?
   
   The realistic information that was given to us, the assessments, the guest speakers, the networking nights and last but definitely not least the internship!
   
   
9. What advice do you have for other APM students hoping to break into your field?
   
   Make use of all the opportunities that are presented to you throughout the year including the networking nights and events. Do not be afraid to go out and speak to people because most of the CEO’s and successful executives that you look up to were in your position one day. Study hard, work hard and keep your eye on the prize.
   
   
10. What other career goals or aspirations do you have?
    
    I would eventually like to manage my own sports team. My ultimate goal would be to employed with in the NRL.