Before I
began my placement at the City of Perth I was unsure about whether I wanted a
career in public relations or whether I would use my degree to work within a
different field. Sometimes University work can become monotonous and the idea
of a career in that certain area can become increasingly less desirable. Being
able to undertake a public relations placement unit demonstrated to me the
difference between a University environment and a practical working environment
within an organisation. I am sure I’m not alone in saying that this placement
unit has been an eye opener and provided invaluable experience.
The best
thing about working for a local government organisation like the City of Perth
is the diversity of work that comes across your desk. One day you can be writing
a speech for the Deputy Lord Major and the next organising stilt walkers as an
advertising tool for Carnival Macabre. By the way, if you have some spare time
(what spare time!) then head down to Northbridge Piazza to enjoy Carnival
Macabre 25 October – 3 November. Carnival Macabre is a week-long festival to
celebrate Halloween and Mexican Day of the Dead. There are a variety of
ghoulish, spooky and interesting events and activities planned.
Leaving the
City of Perth is one of the hardest things I have had to do, cue the tears.
Everyone I have had the pleasure of working with in my role as a Communications
& PR Intern have been welcoming, supportive and above all, friendly. I
constantly looked forward to my Thursdays and Fridays at the City of Perth and
its true what they say, if you love what you do then you will never work a day
in your life.
On my last
day the Marketing, Communication and Events Unit put on a morning tea to say
goodbye and thank you. I managed to say a few words without crying, which is a
big thing for me. I hope the entire unit and especially Natasha, Sonya, Adam,
Di and Kate understand how grateful I am for the opportunity and how much they
have helped me develop into a capable and confident public relations
practitioner. Oh and the chocolate cupcakes I brought in for the morning tea
were a great success!
Below is a
picture of the beautiful flowers I was given by the Marketing, Communication
and Events Unit.
On my first
day at the City of Perth I was given an access keycard (picture below) which is
required to be used in the lift, to get into the office areas of each level and
also to get into the levels if you use the stairs. I cannot tell you how many
times I forgot my keycard and just as I was getting the hang of taking it with
me everywhere I had to go, I had to hand it back!
By now I am
sure most of you will have finished your placements. I hope they have been
enjoyable and provided you with excellent experience.
This is my
final blog and I would like to wish you all the best for your future career,
whether in the field of public relations or wherever your degree takes you.
Good luck, I
am sure I will cross paths again with some of you in the future!
Rachel.
