Creative Industries Alumna - Kirsten Ellis
BA Drama and English Graduate, 2022
Creative Industries Alumna - Kirsten Ellis
Kirsten Ellis graduated in 2022 with a BA Drama and English. Here she shares her favourite things about studying a creative course, her experience as a BBC Apprentice Production Coordinator, and why she recommends University of Birmingham as a great place to study a degree in the creative industries.
Why did you choose your course at the University of Birmingham?
As a Scottish student, choosing an English university was a significant decision. I chose UoB due to the opportunity to study a Joint Honours Degree in English and Drama. I was drawn to the many practical modules in Drama and the university's close connection with the RSC.
Additionally, Birmingham is a creative city with many opportunities in theatre and the arts, so I knew there would be plenty of work experience opportunities available.
How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham?
In September 2022, I enrolled on the BBC Apprenticeship Scheme: Production Coordinator. During this time, I have been on a placement with Full Fat TV, an independent company based in Birmingham, and have worked on a variety of Factual Entertainment shows, from Musical Masterpieces (Sky Arts) to A&E: Crash Scene Emergency (Channel 5).
I have achieved two production credits, Production Secretary and Junior Coordinator for The Bad Skin Clinic, Seasons 5 and 6 respectively. I am soon to finish my apprenticeship, and I will be ready to continue a career in working in Production.
Are there specific courses or experiences from your degree programme that stand out as particularly influential in your career development?
Studying a creative degree was integral in gaining excellent written and verbal communication skills, which is important to my career as a Production Coordinator (PC). Through acting modules in Drama and writing many essays on a range of topics, I learned how to structure my thoughts and present information clearly, a skill I have needed when writing job applications, and now in my everyday tasks as a PC.
The various modules I studied in Drama allowed me to try out different, creative ideas, build self-confidence and learn what aspects of the arts I was interested in.
Can you list up to three reasons why you would recommend the University of Birmingham as a great place to study a degree related to the creative industries?
RSC Partnership - I would recommend UoB because of its partnership with the RSC. This made studying Shakespeare in English and Drama so insightful and interesting. There are loads of resources, experienced lecturers, and other great opportunities including access to the Shakespeare libraries in Stratford Upon Avon.
Work opportunities - During my course, I completed two creative internships / placements (Arts Uplift & Birmingham City Council) that were put in place by the University. This was great in giving me hands on experience in different job roles and expanding my CV. Additionally, I found the role of Camera Assistant at the Commonwealth Games through the Creative Departments. Some internships have bursaries and flexible working arrangements, meaning they are accessible to all students.
Student groups - Aside from the diverse range of modules offered, the Guild of Students itself has numerous student groups including Guild Drama, choirs and orchestras, and writing groups which makes integrating into societies really easy. These are great activities to participate in alongside a creative degree.