Year of graduation: 2016
Current employer: Springer Nature
Current job title: Senior Editorial Assistant
Current location: London
"There is so much I’d like to thank Plymouth for. It opened my eyes to what it’s like living in a bigger city, it allowed me to become independent, and I grew much more confident in myself. It made me realise I can achieve whatever I put my mind to."
Tell us what you have been doing since completing your studies.
I landed my job role whilst still in the process of preparing my dissertation to be submitted so, since finishing my studies, I’ve been enjoying working full time, getting back into reading and enjoying exploring the big city.
Has your career path changed since graduation?
Not in so many ways – I feel that my career path has expanded and I am more aware of where I want to go. I chose to do an MA in publishing because I’ve always wanted to work in a fast-paced, competitive industry. My current role is within STM Publishing, but I am working on moving over to work with Macmillan Education with an aspiration of becoming a Managing Editor.
What is the most difficult thing which you have faced in your career?
I think moving to London! I am a country girl through and through, so Plymouth itself was a big change for me whilst undertaking my English degree, but moving from the scenic South West to the big city was absolutely terrifying!
What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?
The publishing industry is so tight-knit that I have had such wonderful opportunities for networking with other divisions and other companies within my day to day role.
What, if anything, would you do differently if you could?
I don’t think I would do anything differently per se – I am a firm believer that whatever you do, wherever you go, you’ll find where you’re supposed to be. You might just have to take a few wrong turns here and there.
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get in to the same line of work?
From the start, we were told that the publishing industry is extremely competitive and very tight-knit. Realistically, I can agree. I would just say make sure you are passionate, driven and you know what you want. Don’t give up. Get as much experience as possible and ensure you highlight what makes YOU right for the job role.
How did studying at Plymouth help you?
There is so much I’d like to thank Plymouth for. It opened my eyes to what it’s like living in a bigger city, it allowed me to become independent, and I grew much more confident in myself. It made me realise I can achieve whatever I put my mind to.
What is your favourite memory of studying at Plymouth?
I cannot pinpoint a favourite memory – but anything that involved my friends, the sea and the sun. Even the rain. Plymouth became my home for the four years I studied there so there are so many memories! They all become good, even the panicked dissertation binding at midnight!
Do you stay in touch with other University of Plymouth alumni or lecturers?
Yes, I still talk to a number of my course friends from my BA in English and Creative Writing, and I’ve spoken to a few of my MA Publishing lecturers since, including connecting on LinkedIn.
Would you recommend undertaking a course with the University of Plymouth, and why?
Absolutely. 100%. Not only is Plymouth such a vibrant and fun city to live in, but the University is also in a perfect location. The lecturers are all so helpful and supportive and you never feel alone.
Is there anything else which you would like to share with our current students?
Hold on to the years you spend in Plymouth; it’s a brilliant city that when you leave, there will be no doubt, you will leave a piece of yourself behind.
