By Tina Huynh (31 July 2012)

The start of a new uni semester included my lecturer giving details of job opportunities. She outlined, as part of the opportunities, certain tests one had to endure. Some of these included a current affairs test, an interview and a broadcasting voice test. This was mostly for a position with the ABC.

I found it daunting to have to go through all these tests. I knew that this position was beyond me. If something sounds so overwhelming, it probably is, right? Well, to say the least, my public speaking skills aren’t as great as my writing. So the broadcasting test put me off.

As a student, one is bound to apply to countless opportunities in the hope to get some experience, recognition and a head start in the industry. With this procedure, I’m sure like myself, other students must be going through a mental break-down.

So I have established a list of things and thoughts that students could do to overcome the mental break-down that comes with applying for opportunities.

1. Think positively: know that what you have done is good. Imagine yourself in the position and doing the tasks required. You’re one step closer!
2. Look for other opportunities: alternatives do come up, and they may be better suited for you.
3. Don’t take it personally: if one does get rejected, don’t be so put down. Perhaps there was something that did not fit the criteria. It’s not just you, but the skills and knowledge that you possess. (After this, see the step below).
4. Strengthen your weaknesses: in the time that you have a break-down and are fussing over things, it would be a good time to increase your knowledge and skills.
5. Keep putting yourself out there: it’s the only way that you’re going to get something back, right?
6. Finally, other students will be experiencing this too: don’t be so afraid. There will be other students out there that will be feeling the same. It all comes with the territory of applying for jobs and opportunities.