“I use skills that I learnt in my Bachelor of Media Arts every day, even ones like photography and InDesign,” says media specialist Anna Fawcett. “My job is so varied that the wide range of skills and topics covered during the course has aided me well.” Her favourite part of the degree was the industry professionals teaching – “not just someone who has read about it in books”. 

There was a mix of theory and practical application at Media Arts, she says. “We were pitching real projects/campaigns to companies. The ability to gain real industry contacts and experience through this kind of work and through the internship was invaluable.” 

“I also loved being able to do collaborative projects with other disciplines, and make friends and contacts in other areas.” 

After graduation, Fawcett’s roles included Events and Promotions Manager at Auckland University’s National Institute of Creative Arts and Industries, Festival Coordinator for Laneway NZ, and Marketing and Production Manager for Tim Bray Productions. 

Securing a job as Media Relations Coordinator for Festivals Edinburgh was a highlight, says Fawcett. This role ran for three years over the UK summer months and included creating itinerary for invited media and ensuring their trips ran well. It also featured relevant media briefings and photocalls, responding to daily media enquiries, writing news releases and representing Festivals Edinburgh at public events. 

Fawcett has now completed an MSc in International Marketing (majoring in Consumer Behaviour and Global Digital Media) at Napier Edinburgh University, and is set to graduate with distinction. While studying, she worked at the Scottish Storytelling Centre as their Marketing and Communications Officer. At the time of printing, she was moving to London, having been appointed International Media Officer for Visit Britain. “I get to travel the world doing what I love – so it’s all pretty great really,” Fawcett says. “Hard work, but a lot of fun."​