Advice from Kemi Giwa on Starting Your Career Strong

The class of 2026 Broom Student Fellows met virtually with School of Journalism & Media Studies alumna Kemi Giwa. Giwa discussed her career journey, from her time working on Capitol Hill to her early steps into the public relations industry. Giwa shared two key pieces of advice with the fellows that credits with her own success. Giwa emphasized the importance of networking and managing pressure to avoid burnout.

Importance of networking

Connections have always played a role in career advancement, but today networking is more influential than ever. Referrals often determine who moves forward in the hiring process and who does not. Research shows that 54% of workers report landing a job through a connection. Despite this, many undergraduate students underestimate the importance of networking and miss opportunities that already exist within their reach.

Studies further support this impact, finding that networking explains additional job offers beyond traditional search methods such as online postings, print advertisements and public employment services.

Giwa emphasized that networking does not have to be intimidating. While reaching out online can feel uncomfortable, she noted that those efforts often pay off, even in minor ways.

Just as importantly, Giwa encouraged new professionals to lean on mentors they trust and to explore the networks those mentors can suggest. Giwa reminded fellows that professional relationships are equally as important as those outside of the office, reinforcing the importance of investing in genuine connections.

Pressure and burnout

Giwa spoke candidly about the fast pace of working on Capitol Hill, describing it as a nonstop environment that can be difficult to manage without work-life balance. She highlighted how maintaining hobbies outside of work helps separate personal identity from one's career.

“Make sure you carve out time for you,” she said, reminding fellows that nurturing their well-being is essential for long-term success.

Research supports this perspective, finding that a positive work-life balance significantly enhances employees’ overall well-being, leading to improved job satisfaction, productivity and mental health. When companies implement policies and practices that support a healthy balance between work and personal life, there is a heightened level of employee satisfaction and positive job performance.

Giwa’s friendly and outgoing attitude has played a meaningful role in her successes and is one of the reasons she has built such strong credibility early in her career. Her journey serves as a reminder that success is shaped not only by hard work, but also by the connections we make and what energy we invest in ourselves. 

About the author: Ava Armstrong is class of 2026 Broom Student Fellow.