Guide to Internship Areas in London Table of Contents

Transcription

1 Guide to Internship Areas in London Table of Contents Internship Areas: Introduction Things You Need To Know About your Internship... 1 Additional Information... 4 Writing your CV and Personal Statement... 4 Supplementing your CV and Personal Statement... 4 What to Wear... 4 Obtaining a Police Check... 5 Accountancy & Finance... 6 Business & Economics... 8 Communications Education Environment & Sustainability Fashion Film & Television Historical & Cultural Organisations Information Technology & Multimedia Journalism & Media Legal & Justice Organisations Music Politics Psychology Social Welfare & Non-Profit Organisations Theatre & Performing Arts... 36

2 Internship Areas: Introduction This document is a guide to the internship areas in which the FIE Experiential Education Team has successfully placed students in the past. Please carefully read this introduction and the sections relevant to your major and interests. The three choices you select will be the basis from which the Experiential Education Team at FIE will work with to place you in your international internship. As the internship is coordinated on your behalf, it is important that you understand the reality of what you should expect from your placement. 5 Things You Need To Know About your Internship! 1. Understanding the International Internship The most important qualities that a study abroad student can possess are flexibility, openmindedness, a positive attitude, a sense of humour, and a willingness to adapt to difficult, unfamiliar, and challenging situations. FIE believes these apply even more so to students applying for the international internship option, as they are required not only to live and study in another culture, but to undertake work as well. Workplace environments and practices overseas can be different from those in the US. Moreover, some students may be coming to the internship with little or no office experience, and glamorous visions of the working world may be met with the reality of commuting in a big city and working full eight-hour days. Fortunately, adapting to the pace and reality of professional life abroad is what makes the internship such a memorable and rewarding experience. 2. Industry Differences in the UK It is difficult to generalise, as there is such a wide diversity of placements, but industries in the United Kingdom are often very different from those in the United States. This is why it is necessary for all students to conduct research in the area where they hope to be interning. It is important to understand that professional fields in Britain can be structured differently, and require certain knowledge that an international student, such as yourself, may not possess. This means that opportunities that may be available in America may not exist in the UK in the same form. In many cases, students education and work experience will be interpreted differently and may not correspond to the requirements of a particular organisation or sector. Remember that British and European students, who may have more relevant skills, are also looking for internships in London. The Experiential Education Team will provide the expertise in interpreting placement choices into the reality of an internship abroad, but students must be flexible and accept that reality may be different from expectation. The internship will be a great way to integrate and learn about British culture, and the success at accepting these differences will demonstrate adaptability and cultural competence. 3. Reality of Available Opportunities Given the specific requirements and timeframe of the internship through FIE, the opportunities available are limited to those companies and organisations that can comply with our programme model. This means that the organisations and businesses we work with are most often small and medium sized enterprises, as opposed to large companies. This is because most large organisations and corporations either do not offer internships at all, or run their own closed, competitive internship scheme which is not compatible with our programme. Students are not likely to recognise the name of their assigned company or organisation, as most placements that we work with are local or operate only within the UK. However, we have learned from our extensive experience that students often get a much more involved and personal experience within a smaller company or organisation. 1

3 4. Education vs. Professional Practice At universities and within college departments, areas of study are clearly defined and categorised. Unfortunately, life is not as neat and tidy as a major. While students choices will likely reflect contained areas, the internship may well span over several fields, or even incorporate areas that may not be initially thought of as allied. Textbooks often present academic and conceptual views of the working world; however theories are not usually an obvious focus in daily professional life. Putting knowledge into practice is an important skill, particularly in a different cultural context. Therefore, we will identify the best available opportunity for each student. Please also keep in mind that all placements are entry-level positions. As an undergraduate intern, the tasks will mirror that of a student looking to gain work experience in a field that reflects a future career aspiration. You should be aware that confidentiality policies, qualifications, and union rules could limit your exposure. All students should expect to be involved in a variety of tasks in the workplace and be prepared to prove themselves as capable and enthusiastic workers. 5. Learning Objectives The objectives of the international internship are many, and students will certainly have their own personal goals for the experience. Our main objective is to help students gain a positive cultural and workplace learning experience. London is an extremely diverse city, with a truly international workforce, making it an excellent place to learn about different cultures and professional practices. The internship should help students develop transferable skills, including general business etiquette; professional interaction; computer, writing, and research skills; and those that increase cultural competence. Building these skills in an international and multicultural environment will add a crucial dimension to a student s CV (résumé). Success in the internship and in the overall study abroad experience is heavily dependent upon students ability to manage their own expectations and make the most of the experience. Previous FIE interns have cited independence, adaptability, and confidence as most important skills they gained through their FIE internship. Summary Internships require flexibility, an open mind, a positive attitude, and a professional hardworking approach. You will be challenged in your London internship! Industries in the UK can be very different than in the US and you should prepare for the fact that the available opportunities may be limited. You will most likely be placed with a small or medium sized organisation. Most large companies do not offer internships for the short period of time you are in London. All positions are unpaid and entry level. You will be expected to complete a wide variety of tasks, from basic and administrative to specialised and project-based. This is first and foremost a cultural experience. Interning in an international environment is an excellent learning opportunity to expand your cross cultural skills. The success of your internship placement is what you make of it. 2

4 The Next Steps How to make your Internship Choices Please read and refer to the specific areas in this document which coincide with: - your major (and minor, if applicable) - your previous work experience - your future career path Once you have selected your internship choices based on the information in this document, you will need to fill in the internship section of the FIE Administrative Form. Please list three different main choice areas. Provided that students have the relevant skills and experience, we endeavour to place every student in an internship which is as close to their original requests as possible. However, please keep in mind that while we will try to place students within their first choice area, we will utilise second and third choices if and when necessary, and will often use a combination of all three. An example of an internship choice selection: 1. Business and Economics 2. Accountancy and Finance 3. Communications You may also request sub-areas so we have a better idea what you are looking for. However, please keep in mind that while we will try to accommodate your requested choice areas, an exact match cannot be guaranteed. Here are two additional examples: 1. Fashion Marketing and PR 2. Communications Events Planning 3. Business and Economics Entrepreneurial Companies 1. Social Welfare and Non-Profit Youth and Children s Issues 2. Education Educational Programmes 3. Psychology Research Please do not write specific company names or choices that are too narrow, as it is important to be open to a variety of areas within your fields of interest. Any named placements will automatically be re-classified to fit within the relevant internship area. Please note that there are no internships available in science, math, engineering. or the medical industries. However, students in these fields can still have valuable experiences in a London internship. Students in the health field, for example, should consider psychology, environment, or work in health-related charities. If you wish to intern within an area that is not listed in this document, please us. We are happy to let you know if your chosen option may be possible. If you have any other questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact either your study abroad office or the FIE Experiential Education Team: The Experiential Education Team Foundation for International Education 114 Cromwell Road London, United Kingdom SW7 4ES internship@fie.org.uk 3

5 Additional Information Please follow the link to the Internship Handbook and read the information carefully. You will find details of how to prepare your CV and Personal Statement, used for the purposes of securing you an internship in London. These documents are sent directly to potential employers, so it is important that they are current and in a professional form when you submit them to FIE. In addition to these required materials, there is also other important practical information that you need to be aware of. Please read carefully the details in this section. Writing your CV and Personal Statement A curriculum vitae or CV is the British term for a résumé. Your CV should be up-to-date and formatted to UK industry standards, as indicated in the Internship Handbook. Please make sure that you refer to the Internship Handbook when writing and updating your CV. Your Personal Statement is a one-page essay which serves a similar purpose to a cover letter. It is an opportunity for you to sell yourself more individually to a prospective placement, explaining why you want to come to London, what skills and experience you can offer a potential employer, and your future career goals. Your Personal Statement should also be formatted according to the examples in the Internship Handbook. Your CV and Personal Statement should be sent to us directly at internship@fie.org.uk via , as Microsoft Word attachments. These documents should be submitted to us at the same time that you turn in your FIE Administration Form. Supplementing your CV and Personal Statement Journalism Students: If you are requesting to work in the field of journalism, you should submit samples of your written work. These should be sent as attachments and ed along with your CV and Personal Statement. Please send 1-2 articles or examples of your recent writing, showing a contrast in styles. Politics Students: Those wanting to intern in the field of politics must write a short political paragraph indicating which British political party they most closely identify with and why, as well as any causes they feel especially interested in. Please also this as an attachment. Design Students: Students wishing to work in design (web, graphic, fashion) should prepare a portfolio or send any relevant visual examples of their work. This can be photographs, sketches, and/or computer generated images, which should be ed to us. What to Wear What you will be expected to wear for your internship will largely be determined by the field you will be working in. Most businesses and organisations in London require employees to wear smart-casual attire to work. Interns are often surprised at how casually employees are dressed in the work place, but it is always advisable to dress professionally. If you are interning in the fields of finance, business, or law, it is likely you will have to wear a suit or something similar every day. If you are interning in media, communications, or in a creative or not-profit environment, it is likely you will wear business casual attire to your placement. Because first impressions count, we recommend that you dress your best for your interview. When you are packing, please consider the type of industry you will be working in, what looks flattering on you, and the climate and season. 4

6 Obtaining a Police Check All students requesting an internship in education, psychology, social welfare and charities, criminal justice, or arts non-profits are required to get a police check. If your requested internship area might involve work with sensitive information, children, or people at risk (such as people with disabilities, refugees, the homeless, etc.) you will need to get a valid police check before your arrival in London. A police check (or background check, as it is sometimes called) is a document stating the criminal convictions, or the absence thereof, of an individual. This can be obtained from your local police station, sheriff s office, or campus police. Police checks vary in each state and county, so it is best for you to contact your nearest police station to find out their requirements to obtain a criminal record check. In many cases, you will need to bring a proof of ID (such as a passport or driver s license with a proof of address) and often they will issue the document to you right then and there. Otherwise, they will mail the police check to you once it is complete. Police stations often require applicants to: 1) Fill out a form requesting the check 2) Indicate the reason for the police check. You should write: "International non-profit organisation requesting background check for the purposes of an internship working with children/vulnerable groups" 3) Submit fingerprints 4) Pay a fee Please make sure you begin the police check process early; it could take several weeks to complete the process of making an appointment, being fingerprinted, and obtaining the background check. The check must be completed before you leave for London as you are required to bring it with you to the UK. It is normally not possible to complete the check once you are here. Also, you do not need to mail the document to FIE, simply bring the original document with you. What Happens Next Once you have turned in your completed FIE Administration Form and submitted your CV, Personal Statement, and additional materials to us, we will be in touch via . We will confirm receipt of your documents as well as make any suggestions for improvements. We will also be ing you with additional general internship information before your departure from the US. After we have received all of your materials, we can begin arranging the placement on your behalf. Please understand that it can be a long and complicated process which usually takes a number of months to complete. As such, you will only find out the name of your internship placement after you have arrived in London. Students are informed of their company or organisation by , normally just shortly before their interview. You will have the opportunity to meet the FIE Experiential Education Team at orientation as well as in small group meetings. In these sessions, we will give you specific details about your placement and we will be available to answer any questions you might have. We look forward to working with you. 5

7 The Industry in London Accountancy & Finance The fields of accountancy and finance offer interesting and challenging work and London provides a superb, albeit highly competitive, atmosphere in which to gain internship experience. Offering a truly global perspective on international business and finance, London serves as one of the largest financial centres in the world. As a member of the European Union, Britain provides an English language environment conducive to foreign investors and employees from around the globe, and is also home to the headquarters of large multinationals, small and medium sized enterprises, and dynamic up-and-coming entrepreneurial businesses. Placement Areas & Opportunities Accounting and Finance Departments Interning for an accounting or finance department that operates in a particular company or organisation provides a great internship experience. Duties could include processing invoices and payments, auditing, market research, preparing financial reports, completing balance sheets, analysing data, and liaising with other businesses and creditors. Financial Companies Interning directly in a finance firm is well suited to finance majors who have either interned before in the industry or have an extensive academic knowledge of this field. Each company has its own area of specialisation, and interns will be assigned tasks within the organisation based on both their own past experience and the needs of the company. Working in the finance industry is an exciting and rewarding experience. Interns are usually assigned day-to-day work in addition to projects for the duration of their placement. Tasks in this sector could include data analysis and valuation, assisting with reconciliation, monitoring investments and markets, report and development work, preparing financial reports, completing balance sheets, analysing data, and liaising with other businesses and creditors. FIE works with a number of companies in the financial and accountancy sector including: Private investor companies Financial journalism outlets Online trading companies Community finance and fundraising organisations Financial executive search Realities of the Industry Internships in most large financial organisations, such as investment banks and accountancy firms, are not available on the FIE internship programme. This is because most big financial corporations have their own in-house internship programme or graduate recruitment schemes that are closed to overseas applicants who are only in the UK for a short time. The financial organisations that FIE work with are typically small to medium sized enterprises. 6

8 Accountancy and finance placements seek interns with a good academic knowledge and professional experience in the field. Companies expect students to be open to a variety of tasks and demonstrate an understanding and applied knowledge of finance. It is essential that prospective interns clearly highlight in both their CV and Personal Statement their previous experience and relevant academic courses taken. Interning within these sectors can be very demanding and students may find they are working to tight deadlines and performing rigid jobs where there is little room to creatively explore other aspects of the organisation for which they are working. However, interns will be able to observe international businesses practises and gain practical knowledge in finance. Requirements/Skill Set Knowledge of the industry and understanding of financial terminology Strong interpersonal and communication skills Data analysis and reporting skills Attention to detail and ability to problem solve Transferable skills such as knowledge of relevant IT processes Relevant academic majors include: Accounting, Finance, Economics, and Business. 7

9 Business & Economics The Industry in London As Europe s commercial and economic capital, London is considered one of the leading business and financial centres in the world. With advances in technology, business is taking place on an increasingly global scale and London has been at the forefront of the internationalisation of the world s business, trade, and financial markets. It is also home to numerous small and medium sized enterprises and dynamic up-and-coming entrepreneurial businesses. London is an excellent setting to participate in a business or economics internship and offers fascinating conditions in which to examine relevant issues and modern day trends in this field. Britain s political framework is a hybrid of free-market capitalism and European social democracy; a model which demonstrates a unique partnership between the state and private capital. The city is home to ambitious professionals from all over Europe and further afield, who bring their innovative perspective and language skills to businesses and enterprises of all sizes. In addition to placements in for-profit businesses and financial organisations, there are opportunities within non-profit organisations that provide work for those with economic expertise. Placement Areas & Opportunities Business Administration There are a variety of placements available with small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs are defined as companies with staff base of less than fifty employees. Interning in a business administration capacity is an excellent way in which to gain an insight into the inner workings of a company, and allows students to engage in a range of tasks throughout a variety of different departments. Entrepreneurial Companies Interning for a company that is less than ten years old is an exciting and dynamic experience that allows students to gain experience in a business environment. In the last few years, the dotcom industry has emerged as one of the most prevalent sources of entrepreneurial work, and continues to provide a range of opportunities for student internships. Interns can expect to engage in new business strategies, marketing tasks, and research projects. Real Estate and Property Management Where a student has previous experience or an interest in the field, internships within the real estate sector provide students with an excellent opportunity to learn about business proceedings in the UK. Students will have the opportunity to become familiar with London and the UK s property market, which differs widely from the US market, including geography, pricing, and competitive research. Tasks may include work on behalf of clients, researching properties, and preparing presentations. 8

10 Human Resources The area of human resources is a wide-ranging sector covering selection and recruitment, employee relations, compensations and benefits, and training and development. Human resources departments are crucial to ensuring that all UK and EU legislation regarding employee relations, health and safety, and social obligations are implemented and upheld. An internship within the field can provide an intern with not only knowledge of business practice but also provide insight into the workings of the recruitment field that will prove beneficial for the future. Economic and Policy Organisations Students wishing to work in this field are required to show a high academic standard with a demonstrated knowledge of economic theory. Pressure groups, think tanks, NGOs and organisations within the government sector seek economics interns to assist in campaigns and projects. Such groups differ in focus, political orientation, and the methods in which they work, however the skill sets gained by interning at one of these organisations will be equally beneficial to the intern. Tasks may include fundraising, assessing the impact and development of organisational activities, liaising amongst organisations, research, and marketing projects. Realities of the Industry Business internships can be related and applied to a considerable number of sectors and organisations in London. Therefore, it is essential that students wishing to intern in this sector identify what type of business they hope to intern for. It is essential that prospective interns clearly demonstrate their suitability for the field and highlight in both their CV and Personal Statement their previous experience and relevant academic courses taken. Placement sites expect students to be open to a variety of tasks and demonstrate an understanding and applied knowledge of the business world. Interns will be assigned a range of tasks from office administration and research, to project-based work and client relations. As students are seeking a placement in Britain, any and all placements will be, by definition, international. As London is global city, there will be great variation in terms of the national origins of business owners, employees, and clients. This is an exciting opportunity to interact with professionals and understand business practises outside of America. Requirements/Skill Set Applied knowledge of business and an understanding of current trends Relevant academic experience Hard-working and goal orientated Strong computer and analytical skills Ability to maintain and development good relationships Relevant academic majors include: Economics, Accounting, Marketing, Politics, Business Administration, and International Relations. 9

11 Communications The Industry in London Communications is a vibrant, thriving industry in London. There are a multitude of companies that work in the areas of marketing, public relations, advertising, and events management. Consumer businesses, specific brands, non-profit organisations, and individual firms rely on the communications field to generate business and press coverage. As such, there are a variety of opportunities for international internships across a wide range of different organisations. Whilst many companies have their own in-house marketing department, the industry has also seen a rise in entrepreneurial companies, with innovative professionals offering their consulting services to businesses, particularly in the field of social media. Placement Areas & Opportunities Marketing & Public Relations There are a variety of positions available in PR and marketing at various companies across industry areas such as business, media, consumer, sports, travel, and technology. Students wishing to intern in this field may find themselves working at a PR or marketing firm or within a communications department within a larger company. Tasks may include assisting with writing and distributing press releases, social media management, liaising with clients, identifying and implementing new marketing strategies, forecasting and market research, database management, arranging promotional events, and collecting brand coverage. Events Planning Placements within events planning will involve gaining experience in a number of areas across event organisation and implementation, from contacting sponsors, dealing with clients, sourcing venues and arranging vendors, to office based tasks such as market analysis, administration, and research. Examples of the types of companies that FIE have worked with include luxury caterers, conference and exhibition organisers, specialist venue hire, and entertainment suppliers. The kinds of events will vary from corporate exhibitions, weddings, parties, club nights, conferences, fairs, and festivals. Advertising Due to the intensely competitive nature of this field, opportunities in advertising are typically reserved for students with previous experience in the field and an excellent academic standing. Students qualified to intern in this field will most likely be placed within a department of a communications or media company that deals with advertising and branding. Advertising is a broad industry that can include a range of mediums such as print, visual media, and increasingly online campaigns and social media. Students may have the opportunity to work within a specific niche as determined by the opportunities available. Travel & Tourism For students with an interest and knowledge in the travel and tourism industry, there are placements available within small travel companies, travel communications agencies, and travel websites. The British are well known for their interest in foreign travel, as they travel proportionally more than almost any other nationality. This means that London is a great place to learn about the industry. Students may be involved with researching locations online, writing copy, events planning, attending trade fairs, liaising with clients, and assisting administratively with the business. In this sector, language skills are an important bonus. 10

12 Realities of the Industry It is very important that students requesting to work in a specialised area be able to demonstrate a genuine working knowledge within that field. Although every effort will be made to place students within their particular area of interest, availability varies throughout the year. It is important that prospective interns show their suitability for the field and highlight in their CV and Personal Statement their previous work experience and relevant academic courses. Though there are opportunities for FIE interns to be placed within the field of advertising, it is a much more competitive area than public relations and marketing. Consequently, placements are more likely to be administrative positions and will be allocated according to skills and experience. Students will not likely have the opportunity to work on creating new campaigns or contributing directly to client accounts. These types of creative tasks are normally only open to senior members of staff. Requirements/Skill Set Knowledge of the relevant communications field Excellent communications skills, both verbal and written Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team setting Ability to deliver presentations and speak in front of a group Flexibility and willingness to work irregular hours, such as evenings (if working in events planning) Computer and IT skills and experience with social media a plus Relevant academic majors include: Communications, Marketing and Advertising, Business, Journalism, and Media Studies. 11

13 Education The Industry in London Education in Britain is generally centralised and state-funded. As such, it is an important area of community and political focus. In addition, Britain has a long scholarly tradition in sociology and theories of educational upbringing. This means that Britain, and London in particular, is an excellent locale in which to pursue an internship in the field of education. The majority of children in England attend local government-run schools. There is also a thriving private school system in the UK, where parents pay tuition for the entirety of their child s schooling. All schools and educational childcare providers in England are monitored by the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted), which inspects all schools to help improve and monitor standards. Children in state schools are taught the National Curriculum, which is broken into Key Stages to determine what is taught and how performance is assessed and reported. There are also a large number of educational programmes throughout the UK which cater to specific disciplines and areas of interest. These help develop children and young adults in nurturing their talents and increasing their range of knowledge and understanding. Placement Areas & Opportunities Schools Depending on the time of year, interns may have the opportunity to work at a London school in either a designated Key Stage or age group. Interns will work as teaching aides: assisting classroom teachers with day-to-day classes, school outings, extracurricular activities, oneon-one teaching, and working with small groups. There may also be opportunities to work within specialist areas in schools, such as those for children with physical disabilities or learning difficulties, however these opportunities are limited and dependent on availability. Higher Education Organisations There are a number of opportunities for students interested in the field of university-level higher education and continued learning. Placements may include work at study abroad institutions, business-education partnerships, universities, and in the administrative and marketing departments of international education firms. Educational Programmes There are a number of organisations that offer educational programmes either in coordination with school outings or as afterschool activities. Some schemes specialise in a particular learning focus, such as arts, health, nutrition, sports, and the environment. Interns will assist in planning, coordinating, and delivering the programmes, and may also have the opportunity to work directly with the children involved. Community Education Organisations Students interested in education but not specifically in teaching can be placed within an organisation that deals with community education, educational policy, or business-education partnerships. Many organisations have an education department aimed at community youth education and outreach. Such placements are usually a combination of administrative, research, and project work. 12

14 Realities of the Industry The school year begins in September and is divided into three terms that last approximately twelve weeks each. It is likely that a student interning in a school will encounter at least a one week school holiday during which they may not be able to intern. Alternative arrangements will be made for the time not available in the classroom. Prospective interns must also take into consideration that it is not possible to intern in a school from July to early September as schools are closed. Spring is also a difficult time as schools are normally closed for several weeks around the Easter holiday. Students interested in working the field of education must show a genuine interest and knowledge of the field. Interns should be able to demonstrate patience and understanding in their placement, especially those students working directly with children. PLEASE NOTE: Any student wishing to intern within the education sector must obtain, and bring to London, a valid police check. Please see page six of this document for further information. Requirements/Skill Set Familiarity with the British education system Commitment to, and knowledge of, various educational philosophies and pedagogical practices Patience, understanding, and ability to work with a variety of different learning levels Flexibility and willingness to work on a variety of duties Relevant academic majors include: Child and Adolescent Studies, Psychology, Political Science, Sociology, Social Work, Education, Liberal Studies, and English. 13

15 The Industry in London Environment & Sustainability Environmental issues have long been a focus in the UK and Europe, and this field continues to grow and gain importance on local, national, and international levels. Non-profit organisations, including those with an educational or media focus, policy and pressure groups, and governmental organisations, make up this sector. Environmentalism and sustainable development are rapidly growing subject areas which offer students the opportunity to learn about an exciting and highly relevant field. Sustainability is becoming more and more important in government and business practice. As such, opportunities in sustainable development are expanding in both the non-profit and business sectors. Placement Areas & Opportunities Government, Non-Profit, and Grassroots Organisations Students have been placed in a wide variety of green organisations; some are governmentfunded while others are independent. These organisations focus on any number of environmental or sustainability concerns. Most placements will require a combination of administrative, communications, fundraising, and research duties. Sustainable and Ethical Business Placements are available for students wishing to gain experience with small commercial businesses with an environmental or ethical focus. Tasks offer a combination of typical business, communications, or administrative tasks, as well as the opportunity to learn more about the growing green business sector. This area can also be combined with another choice selection, such as sustainable fashion, ethical journalism, or organic and locally made products. Realities of the Industry The prospective intern must be willing to learn and think analytically about particular areas with which they may not be wholly familiar, as many organisations focus on very specific issues (e.g. conservation, agriculture, pesticides, etc.). A keen interest in the issues that impact the environment or sustainability of resources is vital for these types of placements. Any engagement with the relevant issues through academic coursework, volunteering, or work experience should be highlighted in the student s CV and Personal Statement. The flexibility to perform a wide variety of administrative and research duties is necessary, as many placements will be with smaller organisations that require an intern to play many roles. The intern should also make sure that they share the ethical beliefs of the area in which they are requesting to work. 14

16 Requirements/Skill Set Knowledge of the environmental industry Understanding of the major issues in this sector Familiarity with British environmental policy and major environmental agencies Excellent research skills Flexibility and an open mind Relevant academic majors include: Biology and Life Sciences, Environmental Studies, Geography, Politics, International Relations, Community Development, Communications, Education, and Business Administration. 15

17 Fashion The Industry in London London is a global fashion centre at the forefront of international design and offers numerous opportunities in the field. There are innumerable fashion retail chains, design houses, specialised designers, and independent boutiques which proudly showcase creative talent ranging from cutting-edge street fashion to high-end names. London continues to influence the world of fashion and has given rise to some of Europe s most important designers, famous high-street brands, and numerous small up-and-coming designers working from creative incubators or members clubs. Britain has a long tradition of bespoke design, but has also responded successfully to the needs of a mass consumer market, producing inventive and innovative design projects that are admired globally. There are also an increasing number of design organisations focusing on innovative interior design and lifestyle products. Placement Areas & Opportunities Public Relations and Marketing FIE works with both in-house PR and marketing departments at fashion companies and retailers, as well as with public relations companies that represent a portfolio of fashion brands. Interns can expect to be involved with press releases, scanning editorials, managing social media outlets, arranging the distribution and collection of press samples, and monitoring press coverage. Fashion Labels and Boutiques There are a number of small fashion businesses who produce and sell their own specialised brands. These entrepreneurs have their own boutique or small retail store, distribute their merchandise to larger department stores, and/or sell their products online. Interns may be involved in a variety of areas within the business. Interning in the merchandising area of a fashion company or firm may involve promoting products and ranges of particular brands, supporting sales, and participating in promotional events. Placements may also include hands-on work with clothing and other merchandise. Fashion Design There are a limited number of opportunities with independent fashion designers and boutiques in London. These placements are typically only for students with previous design experience and students should have prior knowledge and practical experience in designing and constructing garments. Required skills may include sketching, patterning, cutting, sewing, and tailoring clothes. Students will be expected to undertake administrative and personal assistant duties in addition to hands-on work with garments and patterns. Interiors and Lifestyle For students with a demonstrable interest in interior design, homewares, and lifestyle products, there are some opportunities to work with entrepreneurs in the field. Tasks may include market research, press work, social media marketing, sourcing products, client relations, copywriting, database management, and general administrative assistance. 16

18 Realities of the Industry The fashion industry can be creative and fun, but also competitive and fast-paced. Companies in this field expect prospective interns to have academic or previous work experience in the fashion industry, as an interest in fashion alone is not enough to warrant a placement within the field. Previous internship experience is desired, though retail experience within fashion is also acceptable. All internship positions will be entry-level, and, in order to increase responsibilities, interns must be prepared to work hard and undertake all tasks required of them. Students will be allocated based on the company s needs and students abilities at the time of the placement. Interns should be up-to-date with the latest fashion in Britain and Europe. American fashion is often several seasons behind European trends, so it is useful to reference overseas designer fashion magazines. Requirements/Skill Set Knowledge of the fashion industry and understanding of British fashion terms Specific skills related to the placement request, for example, design students should know how to hand and machine sew, pattern, drape etc. Familiarity with current international fashion trends and knowledge of important designers and design houses Strong interpersonal and communication skills Relevant academic majors include: Fashion Merchandising, Arts, Design, Communications, Marketing, PR, and Journalism. 17

19 Film & Television The Industry in London London is the centre of the ever-expanding British film and television industry. As a multicultural, exciting capital city, it continues to attract both large and independent productions. It isn t uncommon to catch a glance of a film crew shooting on the streets of London. Although Britain cannot rival Hollywood for big budget productions, London is known for its innovative small budget films and high quality television programmes. The United Kingdom operates government run television and radio stations through the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The BBC offers objective, unbiased news as well as documentaries and entertainment programmes. In addition, there are also a number of private, commercial stations, including free-to-view channels known collectively as terrestrial, as well as a large number of pay-to-view channels. Placement Areas & Opportunities Pre-Production and Research An important element in any film s life cycle is spent in pre-production, as companies attempt to obtain funding for developing projects and work on selecting material. Working within an independent production company offers interns a fantastic experience to learn about the behind-the-scenes work involved in the beginning phase of the development process. Production There are a limited number of opportunities to work in independent film and TV production. Students may be assigned the role of Production Assistant (PA) and be expected to work in a runner capacity in the office and occasionally on shoots. These placements are generally only for students with previous experience in production and also require the most flexibility. Post-Production Post-production is effectively the final step in the making of a film or television programme. It is the process of refining a finished product, which takes place before distribution and release to the public. This is an excellent opportunity for interns to learn about the final steps which go into concluding a project while gaining experience in a variety of areas including editing and music selection. Film Communications Interns who work within film communications have a fantastic opportunity to be part of the promotion process by assisting with raising the profile of films through special events, small fundraising initiatives, marketing programmes, competitions, and screenings. Working in film marketing offers students the chance to further develop their communications skill set in an increasingly integral part of post-production. Talent Management and Development FIE have connections with talent agencies that manage specialised production staff and entertainers. Due to the independent production system, many crew members and artists within the industry work as freelancers. Actors, comics, models, and musicians also use talent representation in the form of agents. Additionally, opportunities are available within community-based organisations that specifically assist young up-and-coming talent. 18

20 Realities of the Industry There are various placements available in film and television, but it is important to understand that the industry in Britain is very different from its American counterpart. It is crucial to know these differences in order to make the most of an international internship in this field. Unlike in America, where television stations finance and produce their own series and shows, programmes in the UK are principally produced by numerous small, independent companies. These programmes are created with a relatively small budget and then sold on to terrestrial or pay-to-view channels. Large media outlets, such as the BBC, run their own closed, competitive internship programmes which are not compatible or possible with a placement through FIE. Union rules and security issues also prevent students from work experience in these areas. As so many young British people want to get into the field, the demand for entry-level positions far outweighs their availability and it can be extremely difficult to get work in the practical side of the industry. Please note that there is no chance of being able to intern at a studio or work on-set for a large production. Students who really want to work on a film set or at one of the studios should think seriously about whether the experience can be found on the London FIE programme. Fortunately, there are still a number of exciting and viable internships within the British film and TV industry. FIE is able to offer potential interns with relevant skills and experience a valuable and rewarding placement. It is just important to note that most of these are predominantly office-based positions. Requirements/Skill Set Experience in the field of film and/or TV is preferred Understanding of relevant industry terminology Familiarity with the UK television model and significant production companies Excellent communication skills and a positive attitude Relevant editing software skills for those interested in post-production placements Flexibility and willingness to work irregular hours and perform a wide range of tasks Relevant academic majors include: Film Studies, Arts, Design, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism and Media, Information Technology, and Multimedia Studies. 19

21 The Industry in London Historical & Cultural Organisations London is a premier destination to gain experience working in the historical and cultural sector. The British capitol is home to a host of world-class cultural institutions, numerous museums, and a wide range of community-based arts services. Cultural activities are highly popular and greatly utilised by both visitors and residents, who visit major attractions as well as more intimate and specialised organisations that only London can provide. Internship opportunities are available in a range of smaller organisations. A placement within one of the specialised areas will provide an excellent way to gain insight into the cultural and historical sector. Placement Areas & Opportunities Museums For students with previous experience and the relevant academic background, internship opportunities are available in a number of small art and history museums throughout London. Students may find themselves assisting in preparing and maintaining collections and exhibitions, archiving, research, event planning, marketing, educational programmes, and the day-to-day administrative operations of the museum. Visual Arts There are several opportunities in the visual arts discipline for students wishing to intern in this growing field. FIE works with a number of organisations that promote the field of visual arts and support artists working throughout Britain. Placements may include photographic libraries, independent galleries, art and talent agencies, creative event planning, and promotion organisations. Community Art Organisations Reflecting the diversity of the arts in London, there are a number of organisations based in the city that offer support to the work of artists, actors, dancers, and musicians. The work of these organisations is often done through promotion, fundraising, training, education, and open gallery or rehearsal space. Interns working within this area will have the opportunity to learn more about the field, gaining insight to the behind-the-scenes element of the arts and heritage industry. Realities of the Industry While the humanities sector in London is extensive, and there are a range of internship opportunities available, please be aware internship positions are typically allocated in organisations within an administrative and assistant capacity. Interns are unlikely to be directly involved in curating exhibitions or developing major projects, but the experience gained through the internship is important to understanding the field as a whole. Although students are understandably attracted to working in large museums, these opportunities are not typically possible due to the competitive nature of the industry and strict UK union rules. FIE works with independent galleries and specialised museums in order to offer students a more hands-on and valuable internship experience. 20