Getting the Job in Advertising: Hiring Decision Makers’ Perceived Value of Student-Run Communications Agency Experience for Recent Graduates

Abstract

Student-run communications agencies on university campuses provide the opportunity for communications students to apply classroom learning to real client projects with actual budgets. Students have direct contact with marketing and communication professionals who hold the students accountable for their work and results. This research looks at the level of understanding and perceived value of these student-run agencies among hiring decision makers at professional communications firms. The research shows these decision makers value the experience students gain from this kind of agency work, including understanding agency operations and culture, interacting with clients, producing actual creative work, and being held accountable for results. Further, students experience the challenges associated with driving projects from start to completion while working with people of different backgrounds and skill sets. Overall, student agency experience provides students with valuable professional skills and a meaningful point of difference versus other candidates when competing for jobs.