It’s an exciting time to be a Communications major. The prevalence of newer media channels such as social media, video, digital display and podcasts have lead to an abundance of ways to tell a story. With the field of communications being so broad, you may be wondering what you should be doing now to set you up for success in the future. Here are some tips to help you build experience now, so you can use it to your advantage in the future.
1. Network, network, network
Creating relationships with different people is always important. It can even help jumpstart your career! Get to know your professors, surround yourself with peers that may have similar interests, and attend events that will expose you to a diverse group of people. Creating these relationships is important but maintaining them is even more important. Don’t be afraid to follow up with the people that you meet! Stay connected. You never know what that contact can do for you or vice versa. For example, LinkedIn is a great platform to help you keep those connections going.
2. Look for internships
During your undergrad, you want to gain as much experience as possible. Internships are a great way to do so! Internships can expose you to different careers and show you what you want and don’t want for your own future career. With that being said, try to look for internships that are interesting to you! Are you interested in a specific communication area? Do some research and learn about those experiences. Internships are a great way to build your resume and make connections.
3. Become involved on campus
Here at UConn, there are many opportunities to become involved on campus. There are a variety of communication-related organizations and roles that are available to you. Take a look through a list of them on UConntact and figure out which ones you are most interested in. There are opportunities ranging from SUBOG to UCTV to radio and etc. If you are willing to take the extra step, you can even apply to take on a leadership role for an on-campus organization. A number of organizations on campus have public relations chairs, fundraisings chairs, communication chairs and etc.
4. Stay open-minded
Within this field of study, there are so many career paths that are available to you. Don’t pressure yourself into trying to follow a strict traditional path. Be open to different opportunities. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to do something that you’ve never done before. As a COMM major, you are in a field where new things happen every day and information is constantly changing.
5. Visit the Center for Career Development
The UConn Center for Career Development is a great place to go to if you need help with anything related to professional development. If you are having trouble figuring out which careers would be good for you, our career coaches can help you narrow down some options and figure out a plan for yourself. You can also make appointments for resume critiques, cover letter critiques, practice interviews and etc. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help! Invest in yourself to make yourself a strong candidate when applying for different positions.
