Emily Media, Communication and Cultural Studies BA Honours
Graduate Trainee at The National Magazine Company (NatMags)
What has your career path been since graduating?
I graduated in June 2010 and was lucky enough to have already started my graduate job. I had always planned to focus on getting my degree before starting to apply for jobs but when I saw the Graduate Scheme at The National Magazine Company (NatMags), I couldn't resist sending in my CV and covering letter.
Having already completed work experience at a number of their magazine titles, including Cosmopolitan, and having a large interest in the magazine and media industry, I knew it was somewhere I would love to work.
A month later, I had the job and was due to start in less than a month. I have been here 10 months now and the time has flown by.
With so many Media and Communications students, I feel lucky to have got myself a graduate job in this fierce and competitive field.
How did your course and time at university prepare you for graduation?
The course helped greatly with the theoretical side of the media as well as the practical, with a range of modules, from Event Management and Magazine Publishing to Themes and Issues in the Media.
However, I realised from day one that to succeed in the industry you need to set yourself apart from the crowd. I gained work experience in a range of different media environments and I was pro-active in getting involved in extra-curricular activities.This proved to be just as important as the degree.
Did you use the Careers Service?
I used the Careers Service a lot whilst at University. From getting help with my CV to the crucial help I had when preparing for my interview, I was always offered a fantastic service. I would definitely recommend the Careers Service, whether you know exactly what you want to do or have no idea.
What does your current role involve?
I currently work across all 20+ of the magazines, ranging from Good Housekeeping to Cosmopolitan and even to Prima Baby on the advertorials. These pages are themed in the style of the magazine and so they look and read like editorial endorsement. Editorial is priceless to a company so these advertorials are sought after by direct clients and media agencies.
My time is spent attending editorial meetings, meeting with our regular top media agencies, pitching for new business and dealing with direct clients. As well as print, we also sell online competitions and offers onto all of the websites including Cosmopolitan.co.uk, Handbag.com and Allaboutyou.com
Did you have a career in mind when you were at university?
I always knew that I wanted to go into the Media industry and had always shown an interest in the magazine industry specifically. Initially, I thought I wanted to be a journalist and completed a lot of journalism work experience, which actually changed my mind - I realised I wanted to get into the advertising and publishing of the magazine instead!
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Lots! Being here for the celebration of 100 years was amazing. It was an event for the whole company at in a massive marquee at Embankment Gardens with awards, a photobooth, sit down three-course dinner, goody bags and entertainment from a range of famous comedians and celebrities. The magazine beauty sales and taking clients out for lunch is also a definite highlight.
With regards to more 'work' related highlights, after 3 months I was promoted to the advertorial department, which meant a lot to me and I was very proud.
What are your plans for the future?
Ultimately, I want to stay within the National Magazine Company and become a publisher for one of the monthly titles; Harpers BAZAAR or Cosmopolitan would be amazing.
Do you have any advice for other students?
Work hard, gain as much as work experience as you can and be as pro-active as you can within the University. Don't give up or feel disheartened when you are doing work experience because it will all pay off one day!
