Richard Ainscough

Richard is an upper level Communication and Print and Digital Publishing student. He transferred to SFU’s Faculty of Communication, Art and Technology (FCAT) after completing a diploma in Art History from Langara College. He felt that Communication courses would enable him to develop practical and employable skills while still learning about topics that were interesting to him.

The Co-op program has played a large part in Richard’s education here in FCAT. He has held two different Co-op positions so far, and is keen to take on another this summer.  As a Junior Publicist for a boutique public relations firm, Richard wrote press releases, pitched editorial content to TV producers and magazine editors, and kept track of media coverage for clients. While working for NUVO and MONTECRISTO magazines, he was able to develop his writing and social media management skills as the Digital Editorial Intern.

“Through Co-op, I was able to have a variety of hands-on experiences that exposed me to new ideas and gave me the opportunity to learn skills that complemented my academic work.”

What Richard has enjoyed most about his communication degree is how it has introduced him to marketing, both as a producer and a consumer. He especially recommends that students take CMNS 223, Advertising as Social Communication, saying “it will transform the way that they look at and understand advertising”.

Richard is also an FCAT Peer Mentor, where he has had the opportunity to advise new students on how to make the most of their time as an FCAT student. He says that the program “helps new students get comfortable at SFU by giving them the opportunity to ask a senior student anything that comes to mind."

Right now, Richard is excited to be searching for his fourth and final Co-op semester, hopefully with an HR firm, so that he can round out his work experience by communicating professional with people in person.