Amber Strandberg

2007 graduate

Public Relations option

Employed as

Assistant Account Executive

Porter Novelli

Q. Thinking back to your early days in the journalism program (e.g., “Writing for Mass Media”), is journalism what you expected it to be?

A. For me it was "Introduction to Public Relations," I use what we learned
in class each day.

Q. How are you applying the skills you learned in the journalism program at Chico State?

A. News value - "Writing for Mass Media"
Grammar and AP Style - Copy editing
Research (SWOT) - Intro to PR and Strategy
Client communication - TGC and Strategy
Writing - Every class

Q. How many jobs have you held since graduation?

A. I have worked with Porter Novelli since I graduated.

Q. Are you happy with your job (and life) post-graduation?

A. Yes. I am working on exciting projects at a great company, I couldn't be
happier with my career choice.

Q. Please briefly describe what you do in an average day.

A. The only thing that is the same everyday is that I come in each morning
and read the papers I look for client mention, pitch opportunities and
review for a general what's happening. After that each day is different
depending on the client needs.

Q. Do you think the journalism program prepared you well for your job?

A. Yes, Chico State has a great program backed by excellent teachers.

Q. Do you think the skills you gained in the program gave you a competitive edge in the job market? Why or why not?

A. Working at TGC my final year helped me test where I wanted to go with my
degree. The PR field is very diverse so I was able to learn what I enjoy
working on and what I don't. It also gives you a chance to apply learned
skills in a safe environment. In interviews I was able to show results
and ability to work with clients, so yes I think that gave me an edge.

Q. What do you wish you’d learned or done differently while a journalism student at Chico State?

A. I would have taken more (news-ed) journalism classes and worked at The
Orion.

Q. Do you have any advice for graduating seniors?

A. It isn't easy. Do everything you can to get face to face with the
company you want to work for. Once you do, know your stuff! You should
be familiar with clients, industry trends and any new business. Most
importantly, don't be afraid to take an internship.

Q. What are your perceptions of the future of journalism?

A. There are going to be a lot of changes as our economy fuels the ongoing
switch to online media. I think we are going to see a lot of discussion
of how to adapt to new readers and a new writing style.

Information compiled by Lesley Silva

Cat Bytes is a student-produced publication of the Department of Journalism / California State University, Chico