6 best things about my course & college: Sonali

Straight out of journalism I bulldozed right into a state of dilemma and confusion, I applied for my masters that ended even before it began. I had fallen by the wayside and that too, with what intensity! It was only when I had begun to zero in that I stumbled across Sri Aurobindo Centre for Arts and Communication (SACAC). I chose PG diploma in Advertising and Public relations of which I had a fair idea from my graduation in Mass communication.

‘How bad it could be?’ I thought, but believe you me, these moments of uncertainty were worthwhile. While I was still mulling over my past failures, the curriculum of advertising and PR was ready to throw at me- some insane deadlines clubbed with thought-provoking write-ups.

I chose the road less taken, the road less travelled and it made all the difference well, guess what? — I found home.

What you must expect from PG diploma in advertising and mass communication at SACAC (based on my takeaways)*

No traditional approach please! Brace yourself for newer and better ways of thinking- from generating ideas and solutions for real-time problems to presenting with alternatives. No textbook approach thankfully, but keep aware and stay fresh, be a sucker for information, look for innovative work in advertising, PR and all that exists on digital and get inspired. Also, constantly keep abreast with socio-political changes.

Beyond words and rhetoric: You have my word, there is more substance to it than jazz, expect to become more coherent. Once you are through halfway, you will be articulate and on point, or more likely less vague. Simply presenting half-baked information or perplexing figures without context is a big No, No! To understand the core reason you must— dig deeper!

Straight from the horse’s mouth: By the time you are still figuring out your niche (AD, PR digital or creativity across different medium in various forms), you can have it from the big shots of the industry. Professionals from digital marketing, advertising and public relations provide you with rare insights.

Never a moment of stagnation: Throughout the year, lecturers constantly get better and worked out and around as per the requirements of the class. Well, wait for it — individual woes are all taken into account, you will have counselling and personal sessions, if you feel overwhelmed or stuck. They’ve got your back always!

Humanity and compassion: The expeditious pace of work and given the nature of the course of marketing communication, one can get anguished or overwhelmed at times. Despite all these fears and vulnerabilities there is feel-good spirit that balances all moments of distress. The place that this is (SACAC) has a deep humane connection.

Placements: You are highly likely to be placed in advertising, corporate sector and PR industry keeping in view your interests and skillsets. Yes! They help you with lucrative look-ins but reciprocate with attendance and understanding, also learn and work on yourself.

All through my journey here, I grew more than a year beyond my age and spectrum of knowledge and now; I have started to learn, apply and think; I rediscovered consciousness beyond frailty and excuses; I have come to terms with my weakness.  There are ample opportunities offered by this institution but the effort must come from within. Make the most of these opportunities, stir in some effort and conviction, and voila! There you are.

About the Author:

My name is Sonali Chugh and I am a student of PG Diploma in Advertising and PR at Sri Aurobindo Centre for Arts and Communication.

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