Hi, I\u2019m Gemma Woolston, a Teesside University student.<\/p>\n
The creative field is flourishing. So now more than ever, it\u2019s crucial to gain valuable work experience alongside your studies.<\/strong><\/p>\n Since I was young, I knew I wanted to study journalism at university. After visiting and applying to multiple universities, I was lucky enough to be accepted into all my choices. I decided Teesside University would be the best fit for me because its journalism department has industry standard equipment and supportive lecturers.<\/p>\n While studying for my degree, BA (Hons) Journalism, I\u2019ve developed many skills needed to progress in the creative industry. These skills are but are not limited to interview, writing, research, content creation, and Photoshop and video editing skills. Although this has started to help me stand out from the crowd, with more knowledgeable creatives than ever, I knew I needed to do something more to stand out. That\u2019s where my placement year comes in.<\/p>\n During the second year of my degree, I started to research work placements. Although studying and enjoying Journalism, the eCommerce and marketing world intrigued me, so I decided to look for placements in this industry. After researching and looking at different placements available, I discovered Barker and Stonehouse<\/a> were advertising an eCommerce\/Digital Marketing work placement. I researched the role and the company, and I decided Barker and Stonehouse<\/a> would be the right fit for me. Its great reputation, staff, and opportunities for knowledge growth made it so appealing. I applied for the role, went through the interview process and was ecstatic to discover I had gained the position.<\/p>\n After securing the placement at Barker and Stonehouse<\/a>, I kick-started my journey. Let\u2019s discuss some of the tasks I\u2019ve completed during my placement.<\/p>\n During my time at Barker and Stonehouse, I\u2019ve been lucky enough to work alongside many talented and encouraging members of staff, where I\u2019ve had the opportunity to complete industry-relevant tasks.<\/p>\n Studying journalism, I\u2019ve spent a lot of time writing news articles and have been lucky enough to get the chance to write for North East Bylines and The Northern Echo. However, I\u2019d not had the opportunity to write blog campaign content before. So, when I had a chance to write some blogs for Barker and Stonehouse, I jumped at the opportunity! I worked alongside the digital campaign manager, learning what information to include and how to write campaign content effectively. I also worked alongside the SEO executive, learning how to make the content SEO-friendly. After learning this new knowledge, I wrote some blogs for National Bed Month. I produced two blogs:<\/p>\n I\u2019ve also spent a lot of time working alongside the optimisation and conversion manager, looking for ways to optimise the website to increase conversions. After discovering ways to optimise, I\u2019d liaise with my manager and carry out optimisation tasks such as lighting corrections, merchandising products, writing new product descriptions and titles and more. This has been both fun and interesting. I\u2019ve developed many new skills as well as an understanding of how to optimise effectively.<\/p>\n These are not the only tasks I\u2019ve completed. I\u2019ve gained many opportunities and new connections and have also developed and improved my current skills. There are just too many to list! My placement has helped me gain insight into the working world. I hope my top tips below help you during your placement endeavours.<\/p>\n Barker and Stonehouse\u2019s Emma Hughes commented:<\/p>\n \u201cWe were so impressed with the work, commitment and enthusiasm Gemma put into her work placement with us at Barker and Stonehouse. The experience has reinforced how much value we gain from our fantastic relationship with Teesside University.\u201d<\/p>\n You can do anything if you put your mind to it. Yes, you really can. When completing new tasks, if you don\u2019t understand them at first, keep trying and eventually you will succeed.<\/p>\n It\u2019s good to ask questions. How will you learn if you don\u2019t?<\/p>\n Feedback can sometimes be daunting. No one likes the idea of \u2018ways to improve\u2019, but this is some of the best feedback you can get.<\/p>\n I\u2019m extremely thankful for my time at Barker and Stonehouse and the staff I\u2019ve worked alongside. The opportunities they\u2019ve given me are sure to help my future career. If you\u2019re thinking of completing a placement year, do it! You\u2019ll gain valuable skills and knowledge that will help you stand out from the crowd!<\/p>\nTasks completed<\/h2>\n
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My top tips for whilst you\u2019re at placement<\/h2>\n
Believe in yourself<\/h3>\n
Ask questions<\/h3>\n
Ask for feedback<\/h3>\n
Reflections<\/h2>\n