As a communications major, extracurricular activities are an essential part of your college experience. Participating in relevant programs outside of the classroom gives you a chance to apply your skills and connect with others on campus. These five extracurricular activities can help increase your chances of getting hired in your field.
School Newspaper
Writing with clarity requires strong communication skills. If your school has an on-campus publication, getting on the staff teaches you how to conduct interviews, collect facts and present your findings in a clear and logical manner. Whether or not a writing-related career is your goal, spending time paying attention to news on campus and in the community teaches you to keep your eyes and ears open. Developing strong listening skills through newspaper activities will give you an advantage in a world where listening is becoming a lost art and it makes you more attractive to employers.
Theater Club
The arts may not seem like relevant communications major activities, but companies like to see well-rounded resumes from potential employees. To put on a good theatrical presentation, you need to learn how to collaborate with others to meet a common goal. Communication between directors, actors and those working behind the scenes drives the success of the final performance. You may find yourself stepping out of your comfort zone as you perform in front of a large audience, and this prepares you to speak with confidence in front of crowds of any size.
Volunteering
Working in the communications field puts you in touch with people from diverse backgrounds, and volunteering is the perfect way to familiarize yourself with many different groups. Look for local organizations or local branches of international charities whose causes you feel drawn to, and get involved whenever you can. Whether you run a fund drive, help clean up the community or deliver meals, you’ll begin to get comfortable interacting with people from all walks of life and gain insight into the needs of those less fortunate.
Student Government Positions
If you feel drawn to be a representative and voice for the people, get started with on-campus government. You need to exercise your communication skills throughout your term to make the biggest impact for the student body. Being in a leadership role requires you to learn how to express your opinion and voice the concerns of others with a level head even when you’re under pressure. You’ll likely have to participate in debates and bring current issues to the attention of people in power, helping you become more confident in your ability to lead in a work setting.
Relevant Internships or Jobs
Some extracurricular activities for communications majors to consider involve real-world work experience. You have many options depending on the focus of your studies. Get in touch with local companies to find out about internship or summer job opportunities, and check out the work-study programs available on campus. Look for any position in which you can apply the skills you’re learning in the classroom. TV and radio broadcasting, social media marketing, consulting and even tutoring all provide relevant experience and may also help you bring in some extra money.
When considering how to diversify your college experience, seek to challenge yourself in areas relevant to your studies and your personal strengths. You may find a new career path or unlock a passion for something you never thought you could do as a communications major. Find a balance between creativity, academics and enjoyment in the extracurricular activities for the communications major you choose, and you’ll not only expand your resume but also enrich your life.
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