Rhianna Heffron Gets Ahead with Real Marketing Experience
We all know the age-old question.
No, not the chicken or the egg.
The job vs work experience one.
And for final year CAM (Communication, Advertising and Marketing) student Rhianna Heffron, gaining real-world experience in the marketing industry was as much a priority for her as securing her degree.
Starting with Purpose
"Before university, I had limited marketing experience, and I wanted to gain insight into different aspects of marketing. Additionally, I thought that by completing marketing internships, this may help secure a placement in my third year of university."
Classroom to Career with a Packed Placement Portfolio
In her first year, Rhianna participated in the PANI Student advertising project. A competition that sees marketing students mentored by local marketing agencies to create an entire marketing campaign for a chosen cause.
‘I was placed within ‘Mammoth’ marketing agency in Belfast for two months, alongside other CAM and Graphic Design students, whilst completing the project.’
But this two-month-long project was only the start for Rhianna.
Across the next 3 years of her degree, Rhianna went on to complete a variety of paid placements, spanning many different aspects of the marketing world.
‘In my second year, I completed a month-long internship with ‘The Irish News’ as a ‘Market Research Project Intern’. In my third year, I availed myself of the opportunity to complete a year-long industry placement. I completed this placement at ‘Tourism Ireland’ within the ‘Brand and Content Marketing Team’ as a ‘Brand and Content Marketing Intern’. When returning to Belfast for my final year, I was fortunate to land my role at ‘Q Radio’ within the events team.’
All these opportunities have not only created a foundation of experience and real-world marketing knowledge but have also helped Rhianna home in on her desired field within the marketing industry, affording her more direction for after graduation - something which many graduates can struggle with.
‘Through gaining experience in a variety of diverse roles, I have been able to gain invaluable knowledge into different aspects and areas of marketing, which has provided me with great insight into what areas of marketing I would like to specialise in, in the future.’
So, there’s no doubt that availing of placement opportunities is a positive and worthwhile endeavour, but how do you find placements that match your course?
In Rhianna’s case, she went down a few different avenues to secure her various placements.
‘The PANI student advertising competition and the market research internship at The Irish News were advertised through my lecturers at Ulster, circulating job opportunities via emails to all CAM students.’
By using Handshake and her personal network, Rhianna was also able to secure her roles with Tourism Ireland and Q Radio.
And, having such a wealth of experience completing placements and internships, Rhianna had some words of wisdom for other students going down a similar route.
Placement Year Advice
"Try to be open-minded, willing to learn and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. To make the most of your placement year, get involved in activities, projects, and events within the organisation, as the time really does fly by – remember to enjoy yourself!"
Balancing It All and Looking Ahead with Confidence
On top of all that, Rhianna still has time to commit to part-time retail work alongside her studies and placements.
On the topic of balancing, it all she had some encouragement to offer.
'It’s important to find a work-life /university balance that is right for you. Studying full-time and paid employment has greatly improved my time management skills, enabling me to make new connections and friends throughout my university experience.'
As for what’s next, Rhianna is focusing on completing her final year of CAM and getting that degree. But she’s always open to new marketing adventures.
‘I am keeping an eye out for new and exciting opportunities, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds!'
