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Apoorvaa, Communications Strategist at University affiliated health nonprofit : Advize Career Interview
A dynamic career path in communications strategy is revealed through this interview.
The journey began with a multidisciplinary undergraduate education and journalism internships, culminating in a master's degree and a shift to a university-affiliated health nonprofit.
This role demands creativity, innovation, and meticulous attention to detail, encompassing diverse tasks such as social media management, report writing, and event planning.
The fast-paced environment requires multitasking and adaptability, but offers immense satisfaction in connecting with diverse individuals and leveraging new technologies.
The interviewee emphasizes the importance of transferable skills, proactive internship seeking, and a willingness to learn and innovate, suggesting that a strong portfolio and persistence can lead to success in this exciting and ever-evolving field.
A diverse background, even with its challenges, is presented as a strength, ultimately highlighting the rewarding aspects of a career in communications strategy.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Apoorvaa Mandar Bichu
Communications Strategist
University affiliated health nonprofit
Creighton University
Masters of Science in Journalism from Northwestern University
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Creative Writing, Journalism
Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Communication and Marketing
International Student, Immigrant, Transfer Student
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Career Path of a Communications Strategist at a Health Nonprofit
Apoorvaa's career path began with a multi-faceted undergraduate education at Creighton University, majoring in journalism with a focus on news and public relations, and minoring in communication studies— "the best of three worlds." After a master's degree from Northwestern University specializing in social justice reporting and various journalism internships, a shift to communications strategy followed a stint as a breaking news reporter, leading to the current role as a communications strategist at a university-affiliated health nonprofit.
Main Responsibilities of a Communications Strategist at a University Health Nonprofit
Apoorvaa's role as a Communications Strategist is dynamic, with "no two days alike," encompassing diverse tasks such as newsletter and social media content creation, communication report writing (including funder reports), and event management for journalism fellowships. This variety also includes supporting journalists in promoting their work through social media, showcasing a multifaceted and engaging career path.
A Day In The Life Of A Communications Strategist At University Affiliated Health Nonprofit
A communication strategist's day involves routine tasks like "plot[ting] out social media posts" and preparing two weekly newsletters, but the role's variability is key; this includes reacting to urgent requests, such as "promot[ing] a story right on the go," and proactively analyzing data to suggest improvements, including exploring AI integration.
Skills for a Communications Strategist at a University Health Nonprofit
A communications strategist's most crucial skills include "creativity," "innovation," and meticulous attention to detail—"even one misspelling" can be problematic. The ability to be "multifaceted" and maintain "levelheadedness" when juggling responsibilities is also paramount for success in this demanding role.
Favorite Parts Of Being A Communications Strategist At A University Health Nonprofit
Apoorvaa, a Communications Strategist, most enjoys the "ability to meet and communicate with a lot of different people," including health journalism fellows and a supportive team. This central role allows Apoorvaa to connect diverse individuals through communication, highlighting the collaborative and impactful nature of their work.
Biggest Challenges Faced By A Communications Strategist At A University Health Nonprofit
Apoorvaa's biggest challenge as a Communications Strategist is the "very fast-paced" nature of the role, requiring constant multitasking and maintaining accuracy across diverse tasks like social media, newsletters, analytics, and live tweeting. This high-demand environment, while challenging, is also what makes the job "the most fun part".
Favorite Parts Of Working In The Health Communications Industry As A Communications Strategist
Apoorvaa, a Communications Strategist, finds the constantly evolving nature of the communications and public relations fields most rewarding, citing "new tools and new skills to teach [themselves]" as a key source of excitement in their career. The rapid growth fueled by advancements like AI, data journalism, and new software keeps the work engaging and necessitates continuous learning.
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Communications Industry According To A Communications Strategist At A Health Nonprofit
Success in the communications and PR industry hinges on "curiosity," a willingness to "learn on the job," and innovative thinking, according to Apoorvaa. Strong time management and attention to detail are also crucial skills, highlighting the need for adaptability and a proactive learning approach within the field.
What a Communications Strategist at a University Health Nonprofit Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Communications Industry
Apoorvaa, a communications strategist transitioning from journalism, wishes someone had emphasized the many transferable skills applicable to communications strategy, stating, "there are so many transferable skills that you can bring from any background into communications." This realization highlights the value of diverse backgrounds and encourages those with relevant skills, such as strong writing or public speaking abilities, to not underestimate their potential in the field.
Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Communications Professionals
Entry-level communications roles for undergraduates include internships and, post-graduation, "communications associate or communications assistant positions," though a Communication Strategist role like Apoorvaa's typically requires experience. However, a strong portfolio and passion can allow applicants to aim higher, with Apoorvaa advising, "the sky's the limit. Just apply for as many jobs as you can and see what you get."
Significant Career Lesson From a Communications Strategist at a Health Nonprofit
A significant career lesson for Apoorvaa, a Communications Strategist, is the importance of believing in one's ability to "create and come up with different content," avoiding reliance on "tried and tested ways" and instead thinking outside the box to better reach specific audiences. This approach, focusing on innovative communication strategies, has proven crucial to their success.
College Experiences That Helped a Communications Strategist at a University Health Nonprofit Succeed
Apoorvaa, a Communications Strategist, stresses the importance of proactive internship seeking during undergraduate studies, advising students to "start planning while you're in college," even within the university itself. The ability to pivot career paths within the broad field of communications, as a "great field that you can switch into different types of communication," is also highlighted as a key takeaway for undergraduates.
How Identity Has Influenced a Communications Strategist's Career at a Health Nonprofit
Apoorvaa's diverse background as a woman of color and international student presents both challenges and advantages in their career. While navigating biases as an international student, "finding jobs in general" proved difficult, their resilience, diverse perspectives, and adaptability stemming from "being a third culture kid" ultimately became strengths in health communication, allowing them to connect with others and excel as a communication strategist.
Advizer Personal Links
www.callme-apps.com, Instagram: apoorvaab
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