Welcome back to the second edition of 'In Their Shoes' series

Welcome to "In Their Shoes," where we explore the experiences of students navigating the professional world. Today, we feature Beverly, a Marketing student at Aston University who enhanced her skills as a Digital Insight Intern at Disney. Beverly shares her journey, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she encountered and offering valuable advice for fellow students.

1) Can you tell us more about your placement at Walt Disney?

I collaborated with three different teams: Ad Tech, Digital Media and CRM. The Digital Media Team manages marketing campaigns across digital and social platforms like YouTube, Spotify and TikTok for Walt Disney Studios theatrical releases. The CRM team focuses on email-customer relationship management, while the Ad Tech team oversees Disney's digital infrastructure, including data and marketing platforms. This multifaceted experience has allowed me to gain a holistic view of digital marketing.

2) Can you share a significant and rewarding project you worked on during the placement?

I observed opportunities for improved processes with other teams. I proposed some improvements and was given the lead on this project. It was challenging at first, but with the support of my teams, we managed to enhance the communication processes effectively. A memorable project that I worked on was for "Iwaju," a Disney+ mini-series. As a Black woman on my team, I stepped up to provide unique insights that were crucial for the targeting of the campaign. My team trusted me to incorporate various insights and my own cultural understanding, which led to a strategic shift. Presenting our ideas to the wider team and seeing them being recieved with such a positive reception was incredibly fulfilling. It demonstrated the impact of diverse perspectives in marketing and reinforced the value of inclusivity.

3) What advice would you offer to students starting their internships or placements?

Your placement is a golden opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace the challenges, believe in yourself, and don't hesitate to ask for help from your colleagues. It's natural to feel hesitant or doubtful, but pushing through these feelings can lead to significant personal and professional growth. Give yourself grace and remember that learning is a journey.

4) How has your degree prepared you for the placement with Disney?

I am currently studying a BSc in Marketing, and modules on marketing psychology, targeting, and segmentation have been incredibly valuable. This placement has allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical, real-world scenarios, enhancing my understanding of digital marketing's complexities.

5) What advice would you offer to students considering a career in marketing or entertainment?

Networking is crucial— reach out to professionals on LinkedIn with a clear purpose. Come prepared with thoughtful questions if you secure a meeting. Watching "Day in the Life” videos on YouTube and TikTok can provide insights into various roles. Research different segments of marketing, and tailor your CV and cover letter accordingly when applying for specific roles. For those aiming to break into entertainment, knowing the company's and competitors' media portfolios well definitely helps. Additionally, online marketing courses can showcase your passion and dedication to the industry.

6) How has the role helped you develop professionally and personally?

At the start of my internship, I was quite reserved. However, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders has significantly boosted my confidence in speaking publicly. One of my goals was to meet as many people as possible, and this role has facilitated that through extensive collaboration—I've made so many valuable relationships. I've also realised that people are generally happy to help, which was reassuring and encouraged me to continue with my ambitions and curiosity.

7) How did you handle the shift from university life to the 9-5 corporate life?

Building a routine and giving myself time to adjust was crucial. Once I familiarized myself with my new schedule, I could prioritize my tasks effectively. Also, I embraced new hobbies, including joining the Disney women’s football team and regularly going to the gym, which helped me maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Beverly's journey at Disney underscored the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone, being proactive, and continually seeking growth. Her story is an inspiring example for students pursuing internships and careers in marketing and entertainment. We thank Beverly for sharing her story with us. Connect with Beverly on LinkedIn for more on her journey as she begins her next chapter at TikTok. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in our next edition. Share this newsletter with your friends, family, and colleagues, and encourage them to subscribe if they haven't already. Stay connected with us on LinkedIn and Instagram to stay updated on the latest stories and conversations.