When I left Brunel, my plan was…
To get a paid internship right away. I knew how important this would be as my plan was to go into paid work right away and build on my career. I managed to secure an internship with a creative company, through the Santander scheme at Brunel. I was able to negotiate the start date which was ideal, it meant I could get a little travelling in, which is something I really wanted to experience before I started working. The internship lasted 3 months. After it, I was offered a job. I would highly recommend getting a paid internship because:
It may lead to a work opportunity
- You gain valuable experience. If you end up leaving that company after the internship, consider yourself more attractive to your future employer.
- Try and go for a paid internship – you have a degree!
- You will without a doubt make contacts in your field.
At the moment…
After being offered the job, my role changed from PA to Account Exec and I was offered a pay rise. I have worked across various projects and my role has changed slightly along the way. I now work closely with the Managing Director, and I’m currently helping on the creative strategy of our internal brands (club nights, festival, commercial DJ booking agency).
How my career goals have changed…
Throughout the duration of my degree I wasn’t too sure what I wanted to do exactly. I love being creative but couldn’t see myself getting into theatre particularly. I then did a work placement in the TV industry (for Celebrity Juice) thanks to my placement module. I was still unsure. However, I am now on the path to growing professionally in the events industry and although there is still a long way to go, I know it feels right.
How I have developed professionally since graduating …
I have learnt so much about how a company works from the inside. From VAT to audience outreach strategies and the importance of contacts. My skills on certain programs such as Excel have also improved. And my ability to deal with clients professionally over email, in meetings and on the phone.
How I have developed personally…
I have definitely grown. Coming out of uni was a shock and I don’t think I was expecting it. It’s quite funny actually, I started uni and I felt so old and as if I knew everything. I left uni feeling really young and like I’d only just scraped the surface of what I could learn.
My advice to recent graduates/students graduating soon…
- Try to get an internship
- Stay in contact with your friends
- Budget your money when you get paid
- Always think about making connections. Chances are, your dream job isn’t posted, you’ll find it through personal contacts in the know.
#IamBrunel
Coming out of uni was a shock and I don’t think I was expecting it. It’s quite funny actually, I started uni and I felt so old and as if I knew everything. I left uni feeling really young and like I’d only just scraped the surface of what I could learn.