Studying communications is not just about speaking better, but it involves learning the technical know-hows and strategies of the field.

To be a better communicator, taking a course involving media and communications will expose you to the skills you need. This can be through public speaking, interpersonal communication, mass media, business and professional communication.

Prof. Dr Hamzah Abdul Rahman, President of the International University of Malaya-Wales (IUMW)offers insights into what to look for based on his experiences with leading his institution.

1. Learn the tools of the trade

Management and career company, Mind Tools, outlines that good communication often begins with being clear, concise and coherent.

You will first need to know the basic techniques of communication. Familiarise yourself with both recent and traditional methods and tools used in media and communication studies. For example, you may need to know old management theories to develop new strategies in the business that you are in.

The courses offered at IUMW for Professional Communication reflect this breadth of current multimedia convergence and traditional media techniques. Each provides a balance of technical know-hows and creative thinking. Introduction to the history, theory, and practice of communication, integrates the study of communication with a range of media production (for example, writing, electronic media, film, performance).

2. Learn the common language

It may seem obvious but speaking in a common language will place you on the same page as the person or audience you are engaging with. Use every opportunity you have to find that common language. Search for an institution that can provide that diverse international platform and global landscape.

Prof. Dr Hamzah reflects that some of the joys of managing IUMW is to witness and engage with students who express themselves in English regardless of their backgrounds. The fact that they are able to reach out to each other through a common language contributes to better exchange of ideas and knowledge.  Prof. Dr Hamzah believes that this will make it possible for graduates to answer the call "to global demands and create value for the open and collaborative world of business, commerce, science and technology."

3. Seek a holistic education experience

Expand your learning beyond the classroom. Develop not only your language but critical skills.

The collaboration with two historically well-established universities in Malaysia and the UK has resulted in the careful curating of IUMW's syllabus. For example, under a Public Communications course, students can learn Japanese, Mandarin or Arabic in their first year, but also have the opportunity to learn creative writing and problem solving. Students also have access to UM's library and resources for course materials and extra readings.

In addition, Prof Dr Hamzah says that students are given the opportunity to spend a semester at the University of Wales. Find opportunities that will enable you to study a semester abroad. This is more economical and will expose you to a different higher education system, and build your confidence.