The University of Westminster has welcomed back its alumni to give advice to current students on how to get into employment in the Tourism and Events, and Photography and Film sectors. The two What Comes Next? events featured recent graduates advising on career options after graduation and took place on 9 and 14 February respectively.
The Tourism and Events panel took place at the Marylebone Campus on 9 February. It was co-organised by the University Alumni Relations Team and Chiara Orefice, International Exchange Coordinator and Senior Lecturer in Events and Employability.
The alumni panel included Lathusa Chandrakumar, a Global QHSE (Quality, Health, Safety and Environment) Analyst; and Luwam Gebre, a Reservations Manager at the Signet Collection, both graduates of the Tourism and Events Management BA Honours course. They were joined by Emily Murray, an Events Executive at the London Marriott Canary Wharf Hotel and a graduate of the BA Tourism and Events Management course.
The panel covered topics such as what to expect after graduation, finding jobs and using University of Westminster services. Speakers emphasised the importance of gaining transferable skills while at Westminster, making CVs stand out and networking online and in-person. The alumni also recommended working part-time or volunteering while at the University. Following the discussion, a Q&A and networking session was held where students asked the panellists additional questions about life after graduation.
Speaking about the event, BA Tourism and Events Management student Karina Kular, said, “I had a fantastic time learning about what it’s like working in the events industry after I graduate. The girls were so friendly and kind to me and gave the best advice on what to do when I start working in the industry. This made me more confident in choosing to work in the events industry.”
The Photography and Film event, organised by the University Alumni Relations Team, took place at the University’s Harrow Campus on 14 February. Students heard from alumni who speak about their diverse career journeys and gave advice on future career options. The panel included Angelica Bizzotto, Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer of L3NS; and Anouk Witkowska Hiffler, Writer/Director, both of whom are graduates of the Film BA Honours course. They were joined by Jack Hall, Photographer and Director of Hall Studio Ltd, a graduate of the BA Photographic Arts course (now Photography BA Honours); and Elena Cenedese, Co-Founder and Director of S.E.B.C Photography, a graduate of the Photography BA Honours course.
Throughout the event, these alumni shared stressed the importance of internships, utilising University resources, networking and building a strong portfolio for success in their respective fields. Following the panel discussion, students engaged in a Q&A session and networking social.
These events directly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about Art, Design and Visual Culture courses and Tourism and Events Management courses at the University of Westminster.
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