Gemma Clark

Bachelor of Social Sciences
Graduated 2002

I began my studies at the University of Adelaide in 2000, and my interest gravitated towards the social sciences courses within the arts degree in which I originally enrolled. At the end of my first year I switched to a Bachelor of Social Sciences which in name seemed more representative of the topics I was studying, such as Anthropology, Media Studies and Gender Studies.

In my second year I was drawn to Adelaide Uni's student newspaper, On Dit, as an opportunity to try out my writing, editing and proof reading skills as an extra-curricular activity. After a couple of years of volunteering, I worked full time for a modest honorarium to co-edit On Dit in 2003. The editorship proved to be a valuable experience to complement my formal studies.

While at university I also volunteered at community youth radio station Fresh 92.7, which allowed me to learn broadcasting and radio production skills alongside other young people in a real life environment.

My media career took a big leap forward in 2004 when I was recruited as the evening announcer for commercial radio station Nova 91.9. I presented the 7pm-10pm shift there for two and a half years from the station's launch. From there I moved into a media and communications co-ordination role for the Greens' successful 2007 federal election campaign, which saw Sarah Hanson-Young elected as South Australia's first Greens senator.

In October 2009, I started my current role at Novita Children's Services, the not-for-profit service provider that cares for 1300 South Australian children with physical disabilities through therapy, equipment and family support. As communications specialist in Novita's marketing department, I still handle media liaison, but also take care of publications such as newsletters, annual reports, brochures and other marketing collateral. It is rewarding to promote Novita's life-changing work within the South Australian community, raising awareness about disability, and supporting Novita's events and other fundraising and public relations activities.

Both the actual degree and the extra-curricular opportunities presented by student and community media during my time at the University of Adelaide prepared me for a rewarding career in media and communications, and stoked my social conscience.

The Bachelor of Social Sciences gave me skills in research and analysis to better understand the world around me, while being flexible enough that I could train in media and communications at the same time.

A highly flexible degree, the Bachelor of Social Sciences allows study in a diverse range of areas based on the individual's interest.