Life After the Degree

Written By: Lindsey Briggs

The Current Scenario

Upon graduation from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, one would think I would be well established in my broadcasting career and working my way to the top….Well it’s been 7 Months and counting and that’s not quite the case. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining; with all things considered; High unemployment rates, a down economy, and a highly competitive field I’m determined to pursue, I can give myself a pat on the back for the progress that I’ve made…but I’m learning never to give myself  too much credit because it leaves room for complacency.

 More than just a Piece of Paper

Going onto Higher Education is now looked upon as “the norm” and “traditional path for success”. Currently a Bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a High School diploma, reason-being I buckled down for a five-year ride at Syracuse University to get my Bachelor of Science and then straight into the 1 year graduate program to get my Master of Science.

“Don’t let the degree speak for you, you speak for the degree”- Lindsey Briggs

After graduation, it’s no longer about the degree itself but what you do to prove that you are serious about your chosen craft. I have put a list together of what has both helped me in this process as well as hindered me if I didn’t use this list to my advantage. I am still continuously adding onto this list and using these tips currently.

An Article Link I found to be helpful on Passive Panda: How to Email Important People

Tips I follow

• networking Social Media sites are great stepping-stones to face-to-face encounters
• Informational Meetings/Interviews with Experts in your field
• Follow-up! – Very Critical to the longevity of professional relationships
• Keeping skills & Resume current and always learning even if it’s unpaid! (classes, volunteering, internships)
• Building mentorship relationships with Experts you admire
• Attending Events & Workshops that will give more Exposure

The Ultimate Goal

Honestly, no matter what your chosen profession is, the objective is to 1) do what you are passionate about, and 2) capitalize on the best paying job to be fiscally stable and comfortable to live a happy life. GO GET THE JOB!

My personal ultimate goal is to produce and host a long-form magazine show, similar to a Dateline, 60 Minutes, NBC Nightly News and Chronicle HD segments. Right now I am seeking  for reporter and producer opportunities with local News Stations  and organizations that will enhance my writing, storytelling, and productions skills and inherently progressively help me Get The Job!