Interns give low down on internship experience

Name: Jess Chivers  

Age: 23 

Currently studying: Marketing MSc at Oxford Brookes

Previously studied: English Literature BA (Hons) at The University of Warwick                                

I’ve been given a fantastic range of opportunities since starting my internship with Freestyle; from having my own weekly blog published on The Drum, to contributing to a range of different client projects.  My work has varied from delivering qualitative desk research and analysis, helping to produce proposals, to supporting the pitch of creative campaigns and strategic recommendations directly to clients. The internship has enabled me to quickly develop expertise in the cutting-edge uses of social media and online PR, and given me excellent industry exposure - it doesn’t get much better than having your articles feature in both The Drum and Marketing Week?!  

However, what I have really valued most about this experience is the amazing contacts I’ve made here at Freestyle: I feel really privileged to have been able to work with such a dynamic and down-to-earth group of industry professionals. Freestyle is a real people orientated business - I definitely have firm plans to remain in contact with everyone after I’m finished, and who knows what might happen in the future...! I’ve got a week’s work experience planned with Simple (courtesy of Freestyle contacts) and I can’t wait to sink my teeth into some client-side sales and marketing work over there! 

The advice I would give to future interns fortunate enough to work with Freestyle is embrace every opportunity that comes your way, always ask for clarification if you’re not sure, and remain professional and positive at all times! 

Name: Stuart Bayston   

Age: 24

Currently studying: BA (Hons) Visual Communications at Birmingham Institute of Art and Design 

I have always had a strong interest in web and interface design, having been shortlisted for D&AD and B-Hive Creative Awards (a Dragons Den style scheme for the creative industry). The latter involved pitching my work to a panel of industry experts representing 6 of the largest local creative agencies including Freestyle’s MD Suzanne Linton. As one of the winners I gained placements with several companies including Freestyle.

Working as part of Freestyle’s creative team has been invaluable to me: not only has it enabled me to work on ‘live’ briefs with some super talented people, but also provided an insight into the processes involved in bringing large scale projects to fruition. I have made the most of every opportunity offered, getting involved in everything from conception through to design and client meetings. This has given me a better understanding of the scale of work that goes on behind the scenes and the specific roles that people play within a digital agency.

The internship has enabled me to develop a broader knowledge and gain hands on experience in web design, brand development, information architecture and user experience, reaffirming my ambition to become a full time digital designer.

Name: Jonny Chandler 

Age: 22         

Currently studying: Advertising and Brand Management at Staffordshire University 

Previously studied: Foundation Art and Design at DeMontfort University and NCTJ Journalism at Staffordshire University 

I first met some of the Freestyle team at the Channel 4 Inspiration Day, a workshop for young people interested in working in media & creative industries. The Freestyle session provided a fascinating insight into how digital fits into today’s society and as an ABM student I knew I wanted to learn more. So I hung back and had a word with them and that’s when they offered me a placement; I was so happy to get invited by such a dynamic agency.

The main insight that I’ve gained whilst at Freestyle is being able to see how things are actually completed on a day-to-day basis - being there as and when things happen gives a much more realistic and insightful view into what each person’s role entails. Another important insight that I’ll take away with me is that clients want to work with someone they like! They don’t appreciate any pretences or BS; so being able to build rapport with the clients and leave your ego at the door is crucial. Likewise for your colleagues; no-one wants to work with someone who’s up themselves; so always be honest, open and prepared to learn.

If I could give one piece of advice to other interns it would be absorb as much as you can; if you’re not learning something new then you’re wasting your time and the agencies time! So listen to everything you can; sit in on meetings, offer to help out in brainstorming sessions and ask someone what they’re doing if you don’t get it. Get involved! 

As far as my future is concerned I want to make a serious impact on the Adworld. Hopefully I will graduate with a 1st and with a few more placements under my belt. After that I hope to head to an agency which will really help me develop. I want to be an Account Planner in the long term but I think it would do me good to get a few years experience as an Account Manager.