By Jesse Constance, Production Assistant and Youtube Manager at True Crime Production Company, Woodcut Media Ltd (BA Film, TV & Digital Production 2024)
Jesse reflects on how he landed his current role by making the most of the opportunities available whilst he was a student.
What advice would you give to current students who are keen to work in this industry?
Don't be afraid to take up volunteering, non-paid or low-paid jobs during your time at university. Before university I worked on a 6 month contract at a small Production Company on only £6.35 an hour. Despite the low pay, the experience is what counts. That experience got me accepted onto a two week internship with a post-production company The Look, as well as a Summer Skills Placement in which I created 10 videos about Royal Holloway's School of Humanities in the summer after my first year. Those experiences all got me my job as a Digital Assistant for the Careers Service in my second and third years. I would plan, film and edit videos for the Careers Service's social media channels. In turn, that experience got me my current job at Woodcut Media LTD and Video Editor role at Mind Tango which I now do simultaneously.
In my mind at least, experience trumps all. Do not be afraid to do low-paid jobs whilst at university. Even a small amount of money will help regardless of the amount, and the experience will be invaluable and set you apart from other students with the same results once you have graduated.
Make use of the Careers Service
I would use the Careers Service and apply to as many jobs as possible. The Careers Coaches helped me to craft a strong CV, as well as helping me with my interview skills. The Careers Service also helped me find internships and placements that the university was running, which helped me lay the groundwork for my future career. Careers Fairs also helped me find work. One of the contacts I met at a RHUL Careers Fair helped me with two job leads which resulted in interviews over the summer. Although I was offered one and eventually turned the job down due to it not being exactly what I was looking for, the Careers Fair employer definitely helped with my job search.
Use LinkedIn
Use LinkedIn as much as possible with as much detail as possible. LinkedIn helped me find both of my current jobs. Update your information and post frequently to keep your profile active as well as applying for as many jobs as possible. Make a Portfolio or Showreel which can showcase all of your past projects, no matter how good they are. Experience and evidence of progress is what counts! Above all, don't be disheartened if you get turned down for a job. Despite the Film Industry being hugely competitive, there will be jobs made available throughout the year. Start applying to jobs or placements in your second year, to get a head start on the competition!