Baby boomer

Since graduating last summer I have been working as Trainee Marketing and Education Assistant for a small community arts centre in rural Worcestershire. I work closely with the Programme Manager to promote shows, develop audiences and manage education projects, whilst having the fantastic opportunity to cover many other aspects of work in an arts venue. I am paid a salary from grants that the organisation received from Arts Council England, West Midlands, and The Elmley Foundation. These will also finance two more 12-month posts after mine.

Because this is my first big job, and because I am the first graduate trainee to work at the venue, many people were understandably apprehensive about my arrival. It was difficult settling in as almost everyone I work with is a volunteer three times my age. The arts centre is also the heart of a very tight community and I was an outsider, driving a 65 mile round trip each day. However, after a few weeks commuting became normal and I quickly became the baby of the family. I have made great friends and am always included, which means I am given real opportunities to immerse myself in different projects. I firmly believe that I got my job due to the way that I’d used my time at university to gain relevant work experience: I funded my studies by working as a casual Gallery Assistant at the local art gallery and museum, and was heavily involved with the student art society. I also made the most of discounted tickets at the university arts centre. My advice to anyone currently job-hunting is to find out what’s on in the area and get involved. If you can’t find paid work, why not join a local arts club or volunteer for an evening each week while you’re looking?