College Experiences that Helped a Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority Succeed
Melissa's active involvement in the campus television station provided invaluable "learn by doing" experience, equipping them with practical skills and confidence that set them apart when entering journalism. This early hands-on experience, including learning "how to ask questions and how to present professionally," continues to benefit their career as Chief of Strategic Communications.
Communication, Journalism, Professional Development, Leadership, Higher Education
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Melissa Figueroa
Chief of Strategic Communications
California High-Speed Rail Authority
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
none
Creative Writing, Journalism
Government & Public Sector
Communication and Marketing
Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Develop practical skills through hands-on experience: Melissa's involvement in the campus television station provided invaluable real-time learning and equipped her for a successful journalism career.
2. Gain professional experience early on: Actively participating in campus activities like student journalism allowed Melissa to build skills and confidence, giving her a competitive edge in the workforce.
3. Transferable skills are key: The skills learned in student journalism, such as asking questions and professional presentation, continue to be valuable assets in Melissa's current role as Chief of Strategic Communications.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
In undergrad, I was really active in the television station on campus. I think that helped set me up for success in my early days as a journalist because I learned all the skills in real time on campus. As Polly would indicate, it was learn by doing, and we really did.
I felt like I was ahead of my colleagues and peers when I entered the workforce. I never felt behind or struggling to gain knowledge and insight on how to do the work. I always felt very equipped when I walked into the newsroom to do the job I was hired for.
I think that set me up even now in my career. From my days as a student journalist, I knew how to ask questions and present myself professionally in an organization. Things I learned on campus, I still carry through to this day.