By Yati Shoon Let Oo
Diploma in Media and Communications
Internships are the best way to put the knowledge and skills you have learned into practice and gain industry experience. Having an internship will give you an edge over those with no prior experience, when seeking a full-time job.
After completing the Diploma in Media and Communications at PSB Academy, I applied for a Presenter Internship at Advance YPA, a non-profit organisation for youths. It was a perfect opportunity for me to work with people I share a common interest with.
With the modules covering Business and Production, the Media Diploma has equipped me with both hard skills and soft skills that I require for my internship.
These are the five skills that I have gained from my Media and Communications Diploma.
Communication
I believe the ability to communicate well is a key factor to succeed in any professional setting. Communication doesn’t just mean speaking eloquently; it is also a requirement to mitigate conflicts and prevent misunderstandings.
Especially now, where we have to rely heavily on virtual meetings instead of face-to-face discussions. Due to technical error, the wrong information is passed on, or important information is not disseminated correctly. After understanding how the communication channel works, I would ask my supervisor via phone or SMS if I have any questions or clarifications immediately.
Leadership
There will be many occasions to hone your leadership skills; you just have to grasp the chance. By leading group works or joining the student clubs, there are several ways to bring out your innate leadership skills.
I was part of the Student Council, now known as the Leadership Development Club (LDC). I wasn’t much of a leader before, but it changed me after becoming a member of LDC. I learned what it takes to be a leader after being a Project Manager for Project Hope, a youth mental health awareness programme initiated by LDC. It helped me grew both personally and professionally.
Networking
I am sure everyone knows how vital networking is, but not many truly understand its power in the working world. Our lecturers told us repeatedly to expand our social circle and build connections.
In the past, I would wait for someone to come up to me first because approaching people was totally out of my comfort zone. But it gets easier after a while. Social Media is a great tool to utilise in making new contacts and keeping the existing relationships.
Teamwork
With many experiences working in a group setting during my school days, I have realised the importance of unity and group members. But it is not always the case where you get to choose your team members.
Remember that not everyone will be on the same page as you. So you have to know how to compromise, find the middle ground and confront wisely. Good teamwork leads to higher productivity and efficiency.
Creative Thinking
As part of the creative industry, we have to constantly come up with fresh ideas and think out of the box. It is ok to have a different perspective from others, be unique! Being limited to generic ideas is not a good thing in the Production field. Coming up with a new approach to an obstacle instead of using traditional methods will also help you see things in a new light.
I am grateful to have received so much from the Diploma in Media and Communications, and I feel better prepared to advance my career with my acquired skills.
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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