Real Life Public Relations
Bethany Chaisson // September 14, 2012
When considering pursuing a bachelor of public relations at Mount Saint Vincent University, a major factor in my final decision was being able to gain work experience through the co-operative education program (co-op). Co-op wasn’t offered in my first bachelor’s degree, making work in the field an exciting proposition. Having recently completed my first work-term in the federal government for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) in Halifax, I can share my experiences with the job application process, work-term experience and hopes for my next work placement.
The beginning of the co-op experience is truly a roller coaster ride: perfecting your résumé and cover letters; applying and preparing for interviews; worrying with fellow students about job offers; deciding which are your strongest and weakest points. Overall, it is a very stressful and anxiety-filled few months. But it’s all worth it when you receive a call from the co-op office with a job offer. I vividly remember receiving my call. It was a Friday afternoon after I’d finished three interviews. I was so excited when my phone lit up, my shaking voice and smile undoubtedly heard through the receiver.
My first day at ACOA, I was both nervous and excited. When I stepped off the bus and was about to walk into 1801 Hollis Street the feeling that I was about to start a “real” job hit me. Like all new jobs, the first few weeks were filled with learning about tasks and work protocol, as well as getting to know co-workers in the communications department.
I loved putting skills learned in the classroom to use. I helped manage events, and I wrote news releases, media advisories, and client and staff-related articles for internal purposes. I was sad to leave after the four months. It was reassuring, though, to know I was leaving with new connections, improved skills, and that I would be returning to school to learn even more public relations workplace skills.
This co-op work experience has allowed me to learn about myself on a professional level – what I’m good at and what needs to be improved. I hope my next work term is in the corporate setting. I’d like to see the differences and similarities between government and corporate communications. Following graduation, my dream job is to be in health communications for a government or government-supported agency. This dream may change after completion of my next two work terms, which I am looking forward to more than ever.
________________________________________________________________________________________
Bethany Chaisson is a third year public relations student at Mount Saint Vincent University and a very proud Prince Edward Islander. She loves dancing, traveling, volunteering, reading and spending time with family and friends.
