Samantha Mills
Account Executive, Mango Communications
Bachelor of Communication Studies in Public Relations, with minors in Brand and Advertising Creativity and Health Promotion
A lot of problems in our world could be helped with better communication, says Samantha Mills
who completed a Bachelor of Communication Studies in Public Relations, with minors in Brand and Advertising Creativity and Health Promotion.
“I really think skills around communication are important for all areas of work globally. I wanted to be involved in the creativity needed to ensure messages reach the target audience while also helping to make sure this is done ethically.
“The things you’re learning in the Bachelor of Communication Studies will complement each other and ultimately enrich your learning overall. I chose to study brand and advertising creativity because I was excited by the chance to have a go at creating engaging ads and to learn about all that goes on behind the scenes. Health promotion was equally important to me as I’ve come to really care how messages are communicated in the health and wellness world.”
After graduating from AUT at the end of 2023, she now loves applying what she has learnt in her role as an account executive at Mango Communications.
“I interned at Mango during my final year of study and was then offered a permanent part-time role a few months after my internship ended, which would lead into a full-time role as account coordinator after I completed my studies. I’ve moved into the role of account executive earlier this year, and it’s certainly busy but I work with wonderful people and am learning a lot which I’m really grateful for.”
Choosing AUT
Samantha says it was easy to decide to come to AUT for her university studies.
“It felt like AUT was one step ahead in terms of taking care of students and the opportunities they provide for students. I loved that through my degree I’d have the chance to do real work and gain that practical experience too. I think you can really get a lot out of this degree, no matter where your interests lie, and you’ll also have the chance to meet and learn from great people too.”
She has appreciated the support and understanding from AUT staff.
“Towards the end of my second year, I had an unfortunate event occur within my personal life. This meant that at a time when a lot of assignments were due, I was unable to commit as much to them as I wanted to. AUT staff were understanding and provided support and deadline extensions. That was really important to me, and I think showed how they understand that sometimes life gets in the way while you’re studying.”
Advice for other students
Samantha has some great advice for other students.
“It’s sometimes hard to know exactly what you want to go into when you first start university as there are a lot of options and opinions.
“I really think that you have to pursue what you want to do. That passion and care will come through in the work you do and may end up being one of the most fulfilling things you could do for yourself.”
