Isabella Hawker

Associate Product Manager
Penske Media Corporation
West Hollywood, America
My study in public relations gave me the foundation to try out different roles in communications in many industries.

Why did you choose to study at UQ? 
I chose to study at UQ because of its rich history and international recognition. I was excited to go to a university with such a beautiful campus and a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities.

What was the best thing about your program?
The best thing about my program was the extra help of the psychology tutors and the broad experience of my lecturers in communications.

What did your study lead to? How did your study help you to get to your current role, and what does your current role involve?
My study in public relations gave me the foundation to try out different roles in communications in many industries. My current role as a television producer involves a lot of writing and editing, as well as managing people. I believe my psychology and communications studies taught me key skills across these aspects.

What has been your biggest professional highlight since graduating from UQ?
I founded a millennial media company called WhippNews. With the help of the UQ Entrepreneurial and Innovation society, I was able to grow my business and get accepted into UQ's iLab Accelerator. As part of the 10th generation of iLab, I continued to expand my knowledge and skills - it was a fantastic experience.

What advice would you give to students in the same discipline you studied?
Always ask for help - and if you have an idea, go for it! You have nothing to lose, and everyone at UQ wants to try and help you succeed.

Qualifications

Bachelor of Communication / Bachelor of Arts (Public Relations / Psychology and Criminology)
2017