We’re one of the organisations working with the University of Birmingham’s ‘B-Experienced’ Internship Programme — and we’ve been delighted to have had Sheryl as part of our team in Autumn 2024 through the scheme.
We asked her to say a bit about her experience with us over the past couple of months…
When I’d begun applying for internships, I’d been quite nervous, not knowing what to expect in a foreign country. As I write this post, I feel a bit sad but only in the best way, because my time with Strike A Light (SAL) has only made me hopeful about everything that’s out there. I couldn’t have imagined a workplace that felt the way SAL has, and boy have the last 10 weeks flown by.
My induction alone had told me everything I needed to know I was in for an enriching experience. The then Marketing Manager (Ben) gave me a clear picture of the work done here, engaging with all my questions in a way that immediately set me at ease. It was interesting to see how much thought went behind the smallest of details, but what stood out the most was a conversation we had about redistributing soft power through art, creativity and expression. As a writer, I know how much of a difference they’ve made to my life; seeing how thoughtful SAL is in their approach to making them accessible moved not only my professional sensibilities but also my creative.
Everyone here in the office has created a space perfect for learning. Questions were not entertained but encouraged. Every meeting I’ve been a part of has taught me a little more about not only the logistics of hosting an event and targeted marketing, but also how to communicate with the different stakeholders involved in the production process. I was never restricted to any type of work that didn’t interest me. This type of flexibility was unexpected but so important; the week where I worked front-of-house instead of marketing gave me a whole new perspective on SAL’s work and if I hadn’t been given that chance, I’m not sure I would’ve been able to appreciate my time here as much as I do now.
Now, after having seen first hand the reach SAL has and how people have responded, I can see just how true everything discussed in that first week was.
I got to be a part of the team during a transitional period and it was an incredible way for me to observe just how much every person here is attuned to the organisation’s ethos. I didn’t have a Marketing Manager to lead the way for majority of my time here, but that meant I got to learn not only from those around me but with them as well.
This internship has been the perfect way for me to dip my foot into the UK workforce. I think beyond developing my skills as a communicator, by interning with SAL, being with all the wonderful people in the office, I’ve grown to trust myself a bit more. I couldn’t have asked for a more encouraging, warm environment and couldn’t possibly recommend this opportunity more.
Strike A Light 