Gaby Lilley
3rd-year student, Bachelor of Communication Studies in Journalism with minors in Public Relations and Multi-Camera Production
What she has enjoyed most about her studies is how practical the degree is, says Gaby Lilley who is studying a Bachelor of Communication Studies in Journalism with minors in Public Relations and Multi-Camera Production.
“I had been interested in journalism for as long as I remember, and AUT’s Bachelor of Communication Studies was recommended to me by my high school careers advisor. During my visit for AUT’s open day – AUT LIVE – in 2023, I really liked the look of the programme, and felt it matched with what I wanted to study. I love that we’ve been taught and treated like professionals in a real-world environment. In journalism, we run our own news website that mirrors an industry newsroom, and my multi-camera classes use the same equipment and practices as in the live studio industry. The hands-on experience has given me confidence and means I can enter the workforce with a strong foundation of practical skills.”
She particularly appreciated the amazing opportunities she had access to throughout her degree.
“Through my journalism courses, I completed newsroom internships, where I had my work published on Stuff, and took part in a variety of shoots for ThreeNews. A highlight has been working with a few classmates to produce a story that aired on TVNZ’s Breakfast. We were able to pitch, film and edit the story before seeing it broadcast nationally, and we were interviewed live in the studio afterwards. Through my multi-camera classes, I’ve also volunteered in the TVNZ studio, gaining valuable production experience while realising how relevant our classes really were. These opportunities were only possible because of the connections made through AUT.
“The ability to work in professional newsrooms before even graduating has been the biggest surprise for me. I never expected to gain industry experience and even paid work so soon. It has been incredibly reassuring and has confirmed that choosing to study at AUT was the right decision for me.”
Achieving milestones before graduation
Even before graduating and officially launching her journalism career, Gaby has already achieved several impressive milestones as a journalist.
“One of my proudest achievements was creating a story that aired on Breakfast. It began as my idea that we pitched, and it was so rewarding to see something we created being broadcast on a huge national screen. Being interviewed live by Tova O’Brien and Chris Chang afterwards was an unforgettable experience, and it helped build valuable connections for my career.
“I’ve also recently been employed by TVNZ as a digital reporter for 1News, which was another amazing achievement. Being able to work in my dream industry before completing my studies is something I’m still coming to terms with. It’s also really amazing to see so many other students and friends getting the same opportunities as many of my classmates have secured similar industry roles while studying.”
There have been several lecturers whose support throughout her studies she has particularly appreciated.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to receive support from several amazing lecturers, particularly Elizabeth Hoyle, Dr Greg Treadwell, Associate Professor Merja Myllylahti and Associate Professor Helen Sissons. They’ve not only taught valuable industry skills but have genuinely invested in our success, allowing for opportunities and encouraging us to challenge ourselves.”
Advice for other students
Now in the final year of her degree, Gaby has some great advice for other students.
“Take any and every opportunity out there. Some of the biggest opportunities I’ve had came from putting myself forward and making connections at uni, and they have made a huge difference to where I am today.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to others.
“I’d absolutely recommend AUT, especially to those interested in journalism and studio production. The courses are incredibly practical, and the opportunities you receive make the learning so relevant. It prepares you really well for a career after graduation.”
