Lisa Cowell

Bachelor of Media and Diploma in Languages (French)
Graduated 2006

'When it came time to choosing what I’d do after high school, I remember being pretty unsure – it’s a tough decision for most people. However, I was certain I wanted to go to university and pretty sure I wanted to be involved in the media industry. All the journalism degrees in Australia seemed far too specific for me and decided to go with the Bachelor of Media at University of Adelaide. The course choices really appealed and I’d heard some great things. I was also set on the idea of taking a language at tertiary level – I had learnt French and German from the start of high school, and also felt that being fluent in a second language would give me that extra edge when it came to job hunting. I would urge anybody attending university to consider a Diploma in Languages – there are so many options and different levels to choose from!

I was a resident at St Ann’s College for my first two years of university, which was one of the best experiences I’d had to date – being surrounded by like-minded people really helps when it comes to making friends, but also when it’s time to study hard.

My time at University of Adelaide totalled four years, and I was fortunate enough to start my career halfway through my final year of study. I had spent two weeks at Jigsaw Media Solutions doing work experience over the Easter break, and after they’d had some staff changes I was invited to apply for the position of Editorial Assistant and Staff Writer. Luckily my employers were extremely flexible, and allowed me to work part-time whilst I finished my studies. I started full-time in November 2006 and have been busy every since! The general tools and life skills that I picked up at university that have been really beneficial –when your tutors start harping on about good grammar and presentation –sit up and take note!

If I could pass on any advice for new undergraduates I would recommend always turning to your lecturers and tutors for advice – don’t be afraid to knock on their door, as they are more often than not willing to help. I’d also avoid being stuck to your mates like superglue – this is your life so make your own decisions. A subject your friends might really enjoy may be totally the wrong choice for you – so be brave and go out on your own – and meet some more like-minded people to boot. I’d also recommend getting to know the library – it’ll be your new best friend for the next few years and the depths of the Barr Smith can be daunting to say the least. Finally, work experience pays off. Get out there and contact businesses in the field you’re interested in - a lot of companies have programs set up, or are more than happy to host a student for a week, and the advantage this experience will give you at the end of your studies is invaluable.'

• Information on Media Industry Placements through the Bachelor of Media