Journalism and Mass Communications

Sally-Ann Jones - Diploma in Communications (Applied) Level 5

“There was never a boring day!” says Sally-Ann Jones, who enrolled in the Diploma in Communications (Applied) Level 5 qualification in Semester 1 of 2009.

She finished high school in year 13, after gaining university entrance and the Diploma in Communications (Applied) at Waiariki appealed to her straight away.

“It was a new course and I knew that it would involve a lot of practical aspects in PR and business communication.

Also, I had heard a lot of amazing success stories come out of Waiariki, so I knew it would be a great starting point.” She says her most memorable moment at Waiariki was orientation week and being completely overwhelmed by the excitement of the students.

“I have loved every minute of studying at Waiariki. The tutors were amazing, so helpful and encouraging. The atmosphere in the classrooms and around campus were relaxed and friendly. The whole experience in itself has been very memorable!”

“The practical skills I have learnt and the experience I have gained while being at Waiariki are abundant. With PR, in particular, I feel confident in seeking employment with the skills I now have; being able to conduct media conferences, scripting media releases for publication and knowing how to draft communication plans.”

“The work experience was ideal for me at Eastbay REAP in Whakatane, I learnt so much in my two week practicum, which really made me feel confident in my choice of career.”

Sally-Ann says her goals have definitely been met now that she has completed the diploma, and although she could venture straight into employment, plans to further her skills by starting a Bachelor in Communications. She would like to major in PR and begin a promising career.

Kezia Murchie - Diploma in Bicultural Journalism Level 5

Kezia Murchie, Kai Tahu, Kati Mamoe, Ngati Raukawa and Ngati Koki Airana, says she is now confident to go out and work in the media knowing that she is capable of doing the same job, if not better, than someone who holds a degree in communications/media.

“Waiariki has opened so many doors for me, the future is bright and that’s all thanks to Waiariki, its staff.....and many all nighters!” says Kezia Murchie, who completed the Diploma in Bicultural Journalism level 5 qualification this year.

She returned home to Rotorua from Australia to give birth to her son, and started to think about the reality of having to return to work. It was then she realised she wanted an actual career, having spent five years in the hospitality industry.

She says the advertisements in the newspapers caught her eye but enrolment came after speaking with people who had studied at Waiariki and had nothing but good things to say. She knew the journalism course would be great as it had produced some well known names and Kezia says it was also cool to be studying at an institution where her grandfather’s picture hangs in the library (Malcolm Murchie).

“I have gained countless skills during the course! How to write quality news stories, D.J. a radio station, film and edit news stories and mini documentaries, write in Teeline and more. Through experiencing all the different mediums at Waiariki, it has concreted my desire to write for print publications, however, I now know I have the skills to enter any other medium should the opportunity arise.”

“I have had a wonderful time at Waiariki, the tutors, guest tutors and fellow students were great. I have a lot of memorable moments from Waiariki too, such as covering the 2009 graduation, waking up at 4am to cover the More FM Radio-thon for the bushfire victims in Australia. Meeting people I would never have met if I wasn't a Waiariki journalism student, making lifelong friends and above all, gaining world class knowledge and experience from tutors who are so passionate about what they teach, in turn making me passionate about journalism.”