Having already secured two work experience placements for the summer, I didn’t go into the event with a specific intention, just wanting to be part of something creative. However, I came out with some projects that I would like to get involved with and further insight into companies, organisations and jobs that I may want to move my career towards.
Pentland Brands is one that I want to keep on my radar for next year. I am drawn to the idea of working within a family-run business and this brand brings some of the most loved active and footwear. I really got the impression from speaking to the designer for one of the brands that they believe in the power of the collective. This was extremely evident when she was explaining the graduate programme to me where they rotate around the business for two years to experience each part and get a sense of which area they are drawn to the most. An opportunity like this would be perfect for someone like me as I am currently unsure about the direction I want to initially take. The lady also suggested that the role of an art director would fit my interests, which at this stage I agree with and is something I hope to explore further in third year.
I am also going to look out for the next recruitment for the Nottingham Contemporary Response placement. I really enjoyed the zine project and therefore I believe that this editorial experience within a creative environment would be great opportunity for me to learn more about the production process, including expanding my writing and developing copywriting and formatting skills. It would also leave me with an artefact that I could show future employers to help with self-promotion. Not only this, but working with a wide range of students could build my communication skills further and allow me to network outside of my school/department. The next callout is in September so I will send in an application once I receive the email.
Since the Expo, I have applied for Grads4Nottm. This programme sounded like it would provide me with valuable firsthand experience of working in a positive local business environment and to have the chance to work with other students from different disciplines. I am constantly striving to push myself out of my comfort zone and this challenge would give me the chance to work collaboratively within a professional team putting the knowledge and skills that I have developed throughout my education and work in the community into a real life project. Furthermore, I believe that I would also learn new skills that would support any future career path. I specifically applied for a food packaging design, healthcare design and food social media challenge as these are currently my areas of interest.
Last year, I found the event very overwhelming and I didn’t spend very long at the Expo however, this year I felt more confident to go up and meet the companies to find out a bit about their roles and what the business currently offer. Many were only offering year placements or graduate programmes but it has given me something to aim towards for next year.
Rachel
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