Brunel has strong relationships with industry partners, such as WaterAid, which allows students to gain experience and confidence in the workplace, helping to launch their professional careers. Luca Ponceta, a recent graduate, tells his story.
My placement at WaterAid allowed me to have my first hands-on experience in an important sector of the industry. As part of the creative content team, I was assigned different clips and videos to edit for their website and social media. I also had to research personal stories of people affected by climate change.
Not only did my work experience give me a deeper understanding of the media industries, but it also gave my CV a boost, which subsequently got me a paid editor position while still at Brunel as well as my first job after graduation.
I would have loved to see WaterAid's offices and meet the team face-to-face, but unfortunately, my placement took place during the pandemic, meaning everything had to be on Zoom. Nonetheless, the film team at WaterAid worked hard to make my work experience as significant and helpful as possible. They also got in touch after my placement and employed me as a freelancer for an editing job.
Thanks to my experience at WaterAid, I understand how an NGO operates and I would consider working for one in the future, as I believe their work is fundamental. I am now an Office Runner at So Television, trying to work my way up to Production Secretary.
I strongly recommend a work placement to anyone who might be considering one. It will allow you to see how a real company operates, as well as meet people in the industry, giving you an invaluable chance to network while still at university.