Verbal and written communication is a part of everyday life, and Sun Devils with an interest in this career area can work in a variety of professions and industries. One of the largest segments of this career field is mass media, broadcast journalism, marketing and social media. ASU is one of the top institutions producing students in the field of communications and media, and Sun Devils leave with a better understanding of how to connect and reach others through visual media and interpersonal interactions.
Tips for success
Networking
It’s important to connect with industry professionals who can provide more information on specific careers, as well as introduce you to potential professional associations and community organizations related to your interests.
Create an online portfolio
Having an online portfolio allows you to showcase creative talents using writing samples, videos, photographs, digital images or a combination. Your portfolio may contain work from class assignments, personal projects and even professional work you might have done. Start making your portfolio now and continue to add work as time goes on.
Gain experience
Internships and volunteer experience can help you develop crucial hands-on training, which is especially important in gaining employment opportunities. Internships and volunteer experience also allow for building rapport with industry professionals.
Professional associations
There are many local and national professional associations connected to this career field. Joining a professional association will help you network with professionals in the industry, as well as expose you to new opportunities you may not have considered. Some are free to join, while others may offer student rates to become a member. Below are some examples of professional associations.
- Advertising Educational Foundation
- Association of Education and Journalism and Mass Communications
- International Communication Association
- National Communication Association
- Public Relations Society of America
- Public Relations Consultants Association
- Radio, Television and Digital News Association
- Society for Technical Communication
- Society for Marketing Professional Services
- The Association for Women in Communications