Jill Schmelke
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I have always loved writing and research. I wanted to turn that into a practical skill. While at UBC, I thrived having a group of people who shared my interests and passion for writing and research. It was such a luxury to have two years to explore, dig in to the work and meet new friends.
What were some of your most meaningful experiences at UBC?
The friends I made, learning how to write a thesis and the discipline it takes to delve into subjects I care about were all meaningful.
We also had high-profile lecturers who critiqued our work. Learning to workshop my writing was a valuable learning experience in putting yourself out there and receiving feedback.
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success and journey?
Having a strong foundation in research and writing from the UBC School of Journalism has formed the basis of my profession. When I graduated in 2000, print media was transitioning to more online media. Learning how to write for an online audience, instead of print media, was so helpful and I can see clearly now that the skills and experience gained at UBC helped shape my career.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
Freelance writer, development writer, wholesale food sales representative, fitness trainer. I moved around a lot!
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
It’s better than I imagined! I would not have thought this path would be a viable career when I was a kid.
The challenges were mostly figuring out what I wanted to do. Once I knew what I wanted, it was easy. Now I’m truly doing what I love! I founded my company, Nourish Me, in 2016. I’m a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and I work with people to optimize their health. In my owner and entrepreneur role, I run the business which includes being a wholesaler of products, affiliate marketing, social media marketing, collaborating with partners and developing corporate programs.
What do you like about your current job and what do you find challenging? How does it relate to your degree?
I’m constantly communicating and presenting information. Journalism school was very good for developing your presentation skills, written and in person. Some of the best advice I got was to speak up, fact check and speak with authority.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
It gave me a well-rounded education and taught me how to think critically. I learned to work with all sorts of different people, which is an invaluable life skill. Plus, I had the luxury of having two years of school to think about what I wanted to focus on after graduation.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
I would encourage anyone in university to get involved in any activities that interest them. Be curious about other people and build relationships. Most of my skills and relationships are from engaging in something meaningful to me, not just in the classroom itself. UBC is so diverse. You can choose from so many exciting programs and experiences. Make the most of it!
If you find something you love, see if you can make it a career! Your passion will carry you through the tough times.
What advice would you give your graduating self?
One thing I’ll say, I’m living my dream of what I wanted to do as a kid. As an Arts grad, I never would have thought it possible! I was not certain of my path coming out of undergrad. UBC was a big part of my journey, which I can see clearly now. So be bold. If you don’t ask for or define what you want, you’re not going to get it!
Jill Schmelke
Why did you choose your program at UBC and what did you enjoy most about it?
I have always loved writing and research. I wanted to turn that into a practical skill. While at UBC, I thrived having a group of people who shared my interests and passion for writing and research. It was such a luxury to have two years to explore, dig in to the work and meet new friends.
What were some of your most meaningful experiences at UBC?
The friends I made, learning how to write a thesis and the discipline it takes to delve into subjects I care about were all meaningful.
We also had high-profile lecturers who critiqued our work. Learning to workshop my writing was a valuable learning experience in putting yourself out there and receiving feedback.
What choices did you make at UBC that contributed to your career success and journey?
Having a strong foundation in research and writing from the UBC School of Journalism has formed the basis of my profession. When I graduated in 2000, print media was transitioning to more online media. Learning how to write for an online audience, instead of print media, was so helpful and I can see clearly now that the skills and experience gained at UBC helped shape my career.
What was your first job after graduation and what other jobs did you have before your current position?
Freelance writer, development writer, wholesale food sales representative, fitness trainer. I moved around a lot!
Is your current career path as you originally intended? What challenges did you face in launching your career?
It’s better than I imagined! I would not have thought this path would be a viable career when I was a kid.
The challenges were mostly figuring out what I wanted to do. Once I knew what I wanted, it was easy. Now I’m truly doing what I love! I founded my company, Nourish Me, in 2016. I’m a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and I work with people to optimize their health. In my owner and entrepreneur role, I run the business which includes being a wholesaler of products, affiliate marketing, social media marketing, collaborating with partners and developing corporate programs.
What do you like about your current job and what do you find challenging? How does it relate to your degree?
I’m constantly communicating and presenting information. Journalism school was very good for developing your presentation skills, written and in person. Some of the best advice I got was to speak up, fact check and speak with authority.
From your experience, what has been the value of having an Arts degree?
It gave me a well-rounded education and taught me how to think critically. I learned to work with all sorts of different people, which is an invaluable life skill. Plus, I had the luxury of having two years of school to think about what I wanted to focus on after graduation.
What advice would you give to students and alumni interested in breaking into your industry?
I would encourage anyone in university to get involved in any activities that interest them. Be curious about other people and build relationships. Most of my skills and relationships are from engaging in something meaningful to me, not just in the classroom itself. UBC is so diverse. You can choose from so many exciting programs and experiences. Make the most of it!
If you find something you love, see if you can make it a career! Your passion will carry you through the tough times.
What advice would you give your graduating self?
One thing I’ll say, I’m living my dream of what I wanted to do as a kid. As an Arts grad, I never would have thought it possible! I was not certain of my path coming out of undergrad. UBC was a big part of my journey, which I can see clearly now. So be bold. If you don’t ask for or define what you want, you’re not going to get it!
