Preparing for a career in marketing with an internship

English Literature student Kaileb explains how a marketing internship has helped her put skills she's learned on her course into practice and add extra strings to her bow.

When I first started studying English Literature at ARU I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do. I knew teaching was an option so began pursuing this, but other than that I had no idea.

Getting a steer

It wasn't until I attended an employability talk that I discovered how much I could actually do with my degree. After some further research of my own, I became really interested in the idea of marketing.

I then went to a careers drop in session to talk to the careers and employability service about how I could get into marketing, and they suggested trying to secure some volunteering or work experience.

I emailed the Marketing team at ARU, who were more than happy to have me on board for a few hours a week. It’s been a great opportunity to learn what marketing is, and to develop the skills I need to get a future career in marketing.

Hard work pays off

Some of the work I’ve done has involved creating social media images and content, scheduling social media posts, updating data on spreadsheets, and getting involved with photoshoots and team meetings.

I’ve seen some of the posts appear on social media and some of the photos used in actual marketing material. It’s really exciting!

I learnt so much about what marketing is and its importance in today's world, and I now know that it is what I want to use my degree for.

If it wasn't for this internship, I am certain I wouldn't have my job as Marketing and Communications Assistant at the Students' Union. However, I’ve carried on doing my internship, and I learn something new every week.

English Literature is more than just reading books - it teaches you an advanced and broad set of skills which many employers look for.

Kaileb studies English Literature at ARU in Cambridge. Find out more about this and other degree courses at one of our Open Days.