Here at HIGHJAM, we encourage every member of the team to grow their talents and undertake training that can benefit their careers. In addition to aiding the development of our own team, we welcome work experience placements from local colleges and higher education establishments.
For the past two weeks, we have had the pleasure of Ariana joining the team on a work experience placement from Oasis Academy, Hadley. Here, Ariana talks about her experience:
I’m Ariana
Hi! My name is Ariana and I’m a 17-year-old student about to start my second year of sixth form.
I have always had a passion for photography and film, and anything creative. This stemmed from childhood where I was given the freedom to be as creative as I could be. My parents are both passionate about capturing memories and experiencing life to the full, often setting out on month-long expeditions of the world. My mum is into fashion design, art and baking so I used to spend hours watching her work, and every year we would redecorate my bedroom into a new theme – space, under the sea, animal kingdom – I had it all! My dad encouraged my creative writing, and we would spend every weekend in the Library picking books and telling stories. These experiences allowed my creativity to blossom and as I got older, I realised I wanted to get involved in photography and film.
This led to me choosing to study English Literature, Sociology and Media Studies to refine and solidify my interests in these creative fields. I’m keen to proceed my education and future career in media, so I take every opportunity to delve into it as possible. This includes going to specialist talks, engaging with people already in the field and looking for opportunities to expand my knowledge. It was through this interest that a teacher of mine introduced me to HIGHJAM.
My time at HIGHJAM
Choosing to take a placement at HIGHJAM was a little out of my comfort zone. I would have usually chosen something more aligned to photography or media; however, I was keen to challenge myself and learn more about the behind-the-scenes aspects of experiential marketing.
Since my first day, I’ve been warmly welcomed by the whole team. They’ve allowed me to gain experience in all aspects of the business and I’ve learned something new every day. In the office, I’ve helped with event research and assisted the teams with their campaign preparations.
I’ve also been fortunate enough to see some of their work first-hand, visiting the Bavaria campaign in King’s Cross and Walker’s Sensations pop-up in SoHo. I’ve also seen the KeVita x Vogue campaign come to life in Westfield Stratford City and the kick-off of the HSBC activation at Wimbledon.
I’m really pleased I took this opportunity and grateful to the HIGHJAM team for giving me access to how a promotional marketing agency operates and allowing me to get fully involved.
What does the future hold?
I’m looking forward to the summer break and spending time with friends and family before I start my final A-Level year in September. I’m already scoping out some Universities I would like to attend next year and then, who knows!
Well, Ariana, it has been a pleasure having you with us, good luck for the future and keep in touch!
