Two years out of the game, and the late nights hunched over communication theories at UJ still feel fresh in my mind. Back in 2020, diving into the BA Honours program in Strategic Communication was like stepping into a world of words, persuasion, and the ever-evolving social media landscape.

The Lecturers were walking encyclopedia of communication theories, made even the most abstract concepts click. Their lectures, peppered with real-world examples and pop culture references, had us dissecting viral campaigns and analyzing political speeches with newfound enthusiasm.

The program wasn’t just theory though. We rolled up our sleeves for group projects. One semester, we devised a communication strategy for a local company, researching their target audience, crafting compelling messages, and even proposing creative social media campaigns. The pressure was real, but the sense of accomplishment seeing our ideas come to life was unmatched.

Sure, navigating the never-ending stream of academic articles and perfecting the art of crafting concise research papers wasn’t always a walk in the park.

Looking back, the UJ program not only equipped me with the theoretical foundation to understand the ever-changing communication landscape, but also cultivated critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze information through a strategic lens. It wasn’t just about memorizing facts; it was about learning to apply your knowledge to real-world situations and develop effective communication strategies.

While the program focused heavily on the theoretical underpinnings, a stronger emphasis on practical applications, perhaps through industry projects or guest lectures from communication professionals, could have provided a deeper understanding of the current industry landscape.

Overall, the BA Honours program at UJ was a challenging yet rewarding experience. It ignited a passion for strategic communication that continues to drive me today. It wasn’t just about acquiring knowledge; it was about learning to think critically, communicate effectively, and navigate the ever-dynamic world of communication in a strategic and impactful way.