What does real-world communications experience look like while you're still at university?
At For Real Communications, a student-run communications agency at QUT, students can gain hands-on industry experience through their Work Integrated Learning (WIL) project unit. Working as part of the agency, students collaborate with real clients, lead teams and deliver work designed to solve genuine communication challenges.
What makes For Real different from classroom projects?
Many university assessments are designed to replicate workplace scenarios. For Real takes that one step further. This agency provides students with opportunities to respond to client briefs, collaborate on campaigns, create content and contribute to projects with real-world outcomes all while building an industry-ready portfolio.
For Real Creative Director and Bachelor of Communication/Bachelor of Laws (Hounours) student, Mabel Dot Warth says one of the highlights of her time with For Real has been the agency's collaborative and supportive culture.
“I've loved working for the For Real team this semester and with new clients. The team really encourages each other to be bold and creative, which allowed me to flourish and gain knowledge and skills I can confidently use in my career.”
Students are responsible for navigating the same challenges communications professionals face every day: understanding stakeholder needs, balancing competing priorities, meeting deadlines and delivering solutions that achieve objectives.
Rather than working towards a grade alone, students gain experience applying communication theory in practical settings where teamwork, initiative and adaptability are essential.
For Real Communications Advisory Board: Jamie Hatch, Tian Hedge, Mel Deacon with Managing Director, Ashleigh Tuckwood and Academic Advisor, Benjamin Nicoll
Supported by industry
Although For Real Communications is student-run, students are supported by academic staff and an advisory board of communications professionals and QUT alumni.
This combination of student leadership and industry guidance helps students gain valuable insight into professional practice while growing their networks.
For Real Communications Social Media Lead, Francine Bell (Bachelor of Communication) says access to industry professionals and the advisory board has been a valuable part of the experience.
“They were able to give us their advice and insight into what working in an agency is like and offer us their expertise and knowledge for our second client campaign, which was super helpful and comforting knowing we have a team of industry leaders behind us.”
Looking ahead
Whether students join through a WIL placement or volunteer opportunity, For Real offers a chance to develop practical experience in a supportive and collaborative environment.
As the agency continues to grow, students have opportunities to remain involved, take on leadership positions and help shape future projects for the next generation of communications professionals.
If the idea of working on real projects, building industry connections and developing your skills alongside other creative thinkers sounds appealing, explore the Bachelor of Communication and discover where a career in communications could take you.
