Elena Abbott
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Communication Studies in Journalism with minors in Public Relations & Media and Power
If you value practical learning and opportunities, then AUT is the perfect university, says Elena Abbott who is studying a Bachelor of Communication Studies in Journalism with minors in Public Relations & Media and Power.
“The learning and course structure at AUT are more practical and hands-on, which means that I can gain the skills and learn how to operate in my future career while I’m still at uni. For example, in my journalism classes, I’ve not only learnt how to write stories, but also how to interview and edit videos. That means when I intern or get to the workplace, the transition will be so much easier. It isn’t all essays, and while writing essays is important, having hands-on experience is so crucial because you learn all these new things and are able to understand what your future career might look like.
“I also like how individualised my courses are. I can come up with my own stories and work that is important to me. Having the creative freedom and ability to combine my beliefs and values with my work makes it really enjoyable. I also enjoy the fact that within communication studies, there’s a big emphasis on understanding inclusion and providing a voice for marginalised groups. Representation in the media is so important, and being taught about the differences in people’s lives really opens people’s views and helps to make a difference in society.”
She loves that all her classes are linked in some way.
“I’m studying journalism, public relations, and media and power. I’m very interested in sports and political journalism, but my PR and media and power minors are so useful to back that up because they’re so interwoven with journalism. Being able to transfer knowledge and skills between these subjects hasn’t just helped me with my topics and assignments but has also deepened my comprehension skills and has enabled me to make connections between my courses. I believe this is beneficial for my future and where I end up working.”
Friendly and supportive
She has enjoyed how friendly everyone is, Elena says.
“In my classes, especially those that are quite small, everyone ends up knowing everyone, which leads to camaraderie. Even if I don’t personally know someone, I’ll be open to working with them or I’ll be able to get along with them as I know they’re friends with my friends or because we have the same interests. Making friends in classes is super straightforward because you know they’re in the same boat as you and also want to accomplish things and be successful.”
There are a few staff members whose support she has especially appreciated.
“Associate Professor Helen Sissons has been my lecturer for both journalism and PR, which has been awesome because it means she knows more about me and understands what works for me and how to combine the learning so I can have a more solid knowledge of both subjects. Her style and character are amazing because she encourages fun and thinking outside of the box, and she will always make sure to highlight the things you do well. There’s also Professor Wayne Hope, who makes it extremely apparent that he loves teaching what he does, and goes out of his way to provide personalised criteria and feedback. This is incredible because it means I always have a clearer idea of what I need to include in my assignments, and his approachability makes it far less scary to ask for help.”
Advice for other students
Now in the second year of her studies, Elena has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“Don’t be scared to reach out and ask questions! I’m someone who loves to be able to do everything by myself, but I’ve learnt that asking your lecturer about assignments and organising meetings with friends because you’re stuck is really important. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness and doesn’t make you any less capable; it really helps strengthen your confidence and bond with your peers.”
While she still has another year of her studies ahead of her, she already has a good idea how she sees her future.
“Journalism is my number one. Being in a newsroom, or travelling and interviewing people is my dream because it’s a job that allows me to experience so much life and expand my knowledge of the world. Alongside that, giving voices to those who need help and being there to represent groups is so rewarding and something I find to be really important.”
