On a 'mom' break, Goh plans return to PR

Published: January 19, 2006

School of Journalism alumni have found jobs all over the world, careers that build on their journalism studies. This series by Suzannah Evans asked some of those alumni to reflect on their careers.

Julia Goh, M.A. '99 (Courtesy photo)

Julia Goh, M.A. '99

Hometown: Singapore

Current residence: In the northern part of Singapore.

Job:
Am presently a stay-at-home mom, have been since my second child, Callum, was born in November, 2004. But am hoping to return to work (in the public relations industry) by the third quarter of this year.

Describe your typical workday:
My "work" day is spent walking, playing with, or reading to my very active 14-month-old, and my pre-schooler, Kyle, who is nearly 5. Callum does not like sleeping, so I have to find ways to keep up with him, and to keep him entertained.

Is this where you imagined you'd end up?
Nope! But I tell myself that it's a very temporary situation, and of course, being a full-time mother has its many rewards.

What's your proudest professional moment so far?
Being one of the four-person public relations team in Singapore's National Arts Council that handled the public relations events and issues for the 20-day Singapore International Festival of Arts 2004. It was an insane time but I had a lot of fun.

What's your favorite memory of Bloomington or IU?
Tough call since I've so many good memories - from the weather (yes, even winter) to the beautiful campus. But what stands out is my connection with IU's Asian Culture Center. I did my PR campaign for ACC from September to December, 1999, as part of my M.A. requirements. After completing my Master of Arts degree, I edited their newsletters till February 2001.

It was an enriching experience as I had the opportunity to meet many people.

Tell us something about where you live that we don't know.
Next to Monaco, Singapore is the most densely populated country in the world, with 6,430 people per square kilometre, or 4.2 million people living on 26 square miles. Our island also boasts the world's first night zoo, the Night Safari.

Are you a graduate living and working overseas? The School of Journalism would like to hear from you as well. Contact Suzannah Evans (sudevans@indiana.edu) to fill out a short survey and let your classmates know about your exotic home and work.

Return to main story, Alumni find careers in far-flung places.