Winning essay may lead to internship

Winning an essay competition could see marketing student Sophie Speakman spending a week at SenateSHJ, learning first-hand how a busy communications consultancy operates.

Winning an essay competition could see marketing student Sophie Speakman spending a week at SenateSHJ, learning first-hand how a busy communications consultancy operates.

Sophie was the successful Victoria University candidate in Senate’s annual essay competition, which won her a cash prize and qualifies her to compete with students from four other New Zealand universities for a one-week paid internship.

"I must admit I am a little nervous but am willing to give it my best shot," says Sophie, who will be interviewed by the consultancy in September.

Sophie's essay analysing and reflecting on Contiki’s 'This way to amazing' advertisement won over the CEO from Senate, who called it "theoretically sound, concise and written with a voice of authority and conviction".

Marketing lecturer Dr Michelle Renton says winning the internship would provide Sophie with valuable work experience.

"The insights she would gain from their experience would help her understand and apply many of the concepts we teach, and hopefully give her an extra edge in the job market."

Sophie is excited at the prospect of working in Senate’s healthcare area.

"I do a Biomedical Science degree as well as Commerce, so am looking for a way to join to two together."