The first half of our week 11 lecture was taken by Paul Ritchard. Paul spoke about our work attachments and the requirements for them. I found this really useful because I didn’t really know that much about them before this lecture – it was nice to be able to have the details spelled out for us!

Basically, we have to complete 80 hours of work attachments (not internships or work experiences) that are supervised by a media professional. I’m grateful that media is such a broad category, covering new media, journalism, PR, advertising, publishing, ect; meaning we can explore a range of industries to find out what we enjoy.

The big thing I took from the lecture today was BE ORGANISED! There is so much paper work that needs to be done for each attachment. There are insurance forms, application forms, discussions with career officers, CVs, expressions of interests, reflections, ect ect ect! It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin. But the main thing, I think, is to be organised. By knowing what to do and when and keeping a bit of a schedule can help make everything easier and make sure nothing is forgotten and no opportunities are missed. It also helps to set up good professional practices, which is what these work attachments are all about.

Paul suggested making lists and plans before you even approach the employers. This means that you are well prepared and have a clear direction, which can help make you more professional and more likely to get hired. Paul also suggested researching 6-12 places that you would like to work at and making a list of them all. That way, you ensure that you have a clear direction you are heading and your goals help structure your placements. And the bonus is, if you do this early and want to apply to big companies like the ABC, even if your application takes a few years (which can happen! There is a waiting list!) you will get the opportunity to work for these amazing companies.

Another thing that was highlighted today, was the importance of communication and attitude. These work attachments could potentially lead to part-time or full-time jobs. So your attitude and work ethic are extremely important. Its obvious that if you are polite, hard working and good at communicating that people are going to want to work with you. So, as Paul said, “be cool not a tool”.

I’m excited to apply for various work attachments and get out their in the industry. I feel like RMIT really offers a great program with great opportunities like this where the students are thrown in the deep end to find out what the industry is really like.
I will document my progress on here, as that too will help keep me organised.

Until then,

Rose @)—