That is University. It didn’t last too long. Before the first year had even begun the clock had already starting ticking, like unlikely footsteps towards a graduation ceremony. Before you know it University is over. No more assignments, exams or nights out. A move which in all proportions shakes the very foundations of a student’s sole as education has been everything. From the age of three I have found myself subject to the education system. It comes with a hierachy of teachers playing god (especially in secondary school) and University being bridge between studying and the ‘real world’. By the time one hits their early twenties they have usally had enough – I’m twenty two.
Education is one thing but now the hard work really begins. Obtaining a degree, even though the process was mostly affirmable, was a necesity. In terms of the public relations industry a degree has prepared me to build up key skills, understand industry issues, growth patterns and has increased my contacts. Lets not forget that it was also through studying at the University of Gloucestershire that I was accepted as an intern at Microsoft.
The hard work begins with practising public relations, driving results for clients and to build up a strong portfolio of knowledge and experience. Within five years time the degree on my CV will be meaningless unless I can prove my worth by practising public relations. In the beginning this will mean living at home but hopefully, as my situation becomes more stable, I’ll be able to move out.
The biggest loss of University will be the people I have met. In some ways the blow has already been softened, by the time I returned for my fourth final year many friends of mine had already left Cheltenham. Therefore losing contact with people has been a staggered approach but not one I wish to repeat. I expect to keep in contact with the majority of people from my final year, especially through Facebook but undoubtedly I may not see some faces for a few years or ever again. Scary.
For those student who read my blog who still have time at University left – enjoy it. Make the most of your time because the clock is already ticking. There is nothing more daunting than being forced into the real world, nothing more exhilarating either.
Of course the only pressing decision I have to make now is how this blog should evolve. Its title is ‘Musings of a PR Student’ which clearly cannot stand for much longer as the PR student days are close to an end. So a name change is certainly due; should a small design change also take place? Decisions, decisions, decisions.
