As I stepped out of the comfort of my studies in the Bachelor of Sports Media at Holmesglen and third-year internships, armed with what I thought was ample preparation, the reality of transitioning to a full-time job hit me like a whirlwind.
Little did I know that working in a national sporting organisation, especially one as prominent as Athletics Australia, would be an entirely different ball game compared to the familiar grounds of internships. This blog chronicles my journey, the challenges faced, and the overwhelming joy of finding my footing in a new role.
The Initial Blur: A Sport I Love, a Media Landscape I'm New To
The first day at Athletics Australia was a blur. While the sport was one I had competed in and loved, the media landscape was a new frontier. Coming from internships centered around more mainstream sports, the adjustment was immediate and challenging. Meeting countless people and absorbing a plethora of information made for a hectic introduction, leaving little time to be overwhelmed, but a lot to take in.
I consider myself lucky for the tremendous support received throughout this journey. Special thanks go out to those who went the extra mile, especially Simone Wearne and Davin Sgargetta, who recommended me for the job. Landing the role within three days of finishing my studies was a stroke of luck I am immensely grateful for, even if it initially left me fully comprehending my role. Part of this also stemmed from my laser focus on completing my degree. Balancing internships, a major assignment, and planning my internship showcase presentation meant delving into the specifics of my new position was on the backburner momentarily. But when I started, it was all systems go. The turning point came when I was tasked with producing content, providing a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Back Yourself In: The Power of Perseverance
My first event was particularly challenging, pushing me well out of my depth, and at times, nearly breaking me. Yet, I persevered, discovering that even on days when clarity eluded me, backing myself could lead to achievements beyond imagination. The key lesson learned from internships and transitioning into the industry was the ability to soldier on, even when faced with daunting challenges.
The love for the job at Athletics Australia grew quickly as challenges unfolded. Each day brought new hurdles, but the satisfaction of overcoming them and continually improving kept me engaged. The experience emphasised the importance of embracing difficulties and finding a way through, even when self-doubt creeps in.
Athletics Australia, as the governing body of athletics, holds a significant place in our country's sports landscape. In my role as a Multimedia Coordinator, I work alongside a dynamic team, contributing digital content, graphics, and creativity to the overall content strategy. Collaborating with teammates who handle logistics, writing, and community engagement, we collectively work towards showcasing one of our greatest Olympic sports in the lead-up to Paris 2024.
Embracing the Journey, One Stride at a Time
My journey from internships to Athletics Australia has been a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to adapt. Even when feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or out of place, the process of backing oneself and pushing through challenges can lead to unexpected successes. As I continue to navigate the uncharted waters of my dream job, I look forward to the continual growth, challenges, and the joy of contributing to the vibrant world of athletics.
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