Before the cap and gown: Bachelor of Communication student’s PR career already underway

When Isabelle Monk began her university journey, communications wasn’t initially on her radar. After an early change of direction and some time in the workforce, she discovered public relations, a discipline that combined creativity, strategic thinking and relationship-building – which were all the things she valued. In 2023, Isabelle began studying towards a Bachelor of Communication (BC), majoring in Public Relations and is excited to graduate in 2026.

Now, having secured a graduate role before even finishing her degree, Isabelle is living proof of the value Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University’s Bachelor of Communication programme offers, particularly the opportunity to gain real-world experience through internships.

The power of practical experience

One of the defining moments in Isabelle’s study was taking part in the Communication Internship course’, where she spent a semester working one day a week at Horizons Regional Council. This hands-on experience proved pivotal, not just in developing her skills, but in shaping her career path.

“Work experience is hugely important for any student,” Isabelle explains.

“The internship helped me bridge the gap between theory and real-world communications. I learned how to apply what I’d studied, adapt to a professional environment and build relationships across an organisation.”

At Horizons, Isabelle was involved in a wide range of tasks from writing media releases and attending events, to designing posters and creating a factsheet..

“Being trusted to run a project end-to-end gave me so much confidence. It really showed me what I was capable of,” Isabelle says.

A degree that opens doors

Confidence, along with the practical skills Isabelle developed, played a key role in her next big step: landing a full-time Communications Coordinator role with Kāpiti Coast District Council before she had even graduated.

It’s a dream start for Isabelle, who was drawn to local government communications after her internship showed how broad and impactful the work could be.

Isabelle is excited to step into her new challenge and her role ticks all her boxes.

“It’s a team passionate about comms, with space to learn and grow. I didn’t want to pigeonhole myself early in my career and this job gives me that flexibility.”

Associate Professor Susan Fountaine says it’s fantastic to see students like Isabelle taking their passion and interest in public relations into their first graduate roles.

“It’s testament to our very supportive network of BC graduates and employers who provide projects, work placements and mentoring to help develop our students’ practical skills and confidence. ”

Isabelle’s journey illustrates how Massey’s Bachelor of Communication qualification and its emphasis on practical learning through internships prepares students for real careers in communication. With flexible study options, supportive lecturers and connections to industry, Massey provides a launchpad for students to step confidently into the workforce.

And in Isabelle’s case, it led not just to experience, but employment, before graduation.

Isabelle says she often gets asked how much of what she studied will be helpful in a job.

“My answer is: everything.”