By Pek Yi Tsing, Valedictorian (Class of 2019)
Bachelor of Communication, The University of Newcastle, Australia
According to Channel NewsAsia contributor and career advisor Lynelle Seow, studies have shown that “building and nurturing professional relationships do lead to more career opportunities, wider knowledge and faster job advancement.” What does this mean for a fresh graduate, and how does attending university help build your personal and professional connections?
I realised the worth and importance of networking when I was working, especially since I was in the media and communications industry — connections inevitably presents opportunities, whether to aid you in your current job or chart your career path. Therefore, when I enrolled at The University of Newcastle, Australia (UON), one of my main goals, other than graduating with a degree, was to build some connections.
Fortunately, the lecturers who taught Bachelor of Communication at UON also saw the value of networking and provided us with ample opportunities to meet individuals from relevant industries.
For example, Mr Robert Conceicao, the lecturer for our Public Relations Writing and Public Relations Strategy modules I took, introduced us to his ex-students and ex-clients, one of whom founded a digital advertising agency where my university classmates eventually found a job after graduation.
Mr Neville McKenzie, our lecturer for Creative Industries Entrepreneurship, similarly saw the importance of networking in the module he taught and initiated a weekly sharing session in which his professional contacts shared their entrepreneurship journeys and tips on how to be successful in their fields.
Not only that, UON in Singapore is also acquainted with the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS) and students of Bachelor of Communication at UON are automatically student members of IPRS. With the IPRS membership, you can attend events and training sessions related to Public Relations in Singapore, which again, provides you with ample networking opportunities.
I remember discussing with my friends the idea of university friends evolving to become important connections in the future, and I still stand by this belief. For instance, when I secured a full-time job and stopped freelancing as a graphic designer and content writer, I shared the contact details of some of my best clients to my ex-classmate. When I needed help with my work, my friends were equally prepared to lend a helping hand.
Even after graduation, my university clique often meet up — sometimes even with our lecturer — to discuss our jobs, share suggestions on how we can upskill to further improve ourselves, and discuss the possibility of working together in the future.
Throughout my years at UON, my lecturers showed me the importance of being well-connected in the small media space we have in Singapore, and I’m thankful that my Bachelor of Communication helped me achieve that.
Disclaimer: All views and statements expressed are solely personal opinions and do not represent those of PSB Academy or other people and organisations.
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