CI Internship Portfolio

School of Creative Industries Internship Portfolio

CREATIVE INDUSTRIES INTERNSHIP PORTFOLIO

ABOUT THE INTERNSHIP

In the summer after third year or during the fall semester of fourth year, students begin their work placement. This placement involves a minimum of 240 hours of work and must be within a creative sector company.

Placements may be paid, unpaid, or provide an honorarium.

Our work placement office helps students find placements through a series of professional development workshops and a robust Creative Industries job board. While we work hard to help, it is ultimately the students’ responsibility to apply, attend interviews and land a role.

The requirement is designed to provide a first-hand, practical experience in an environment in which creative enterprises operate and of the management practices employed to support and expedite creative work.

To date, our students have worked in small-, medium-, and large-scale companies in a broad range of sectors, including fashion, advertising, television, gaming, museums, film, and music – to name a few. This portfolio features a selection of these students.

ALEXANDRA TUSHINGHAM

Media One Creative Assistant Project Coordinator Class of 2018

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT MEDIA ONE CREATIVE AND YOUR ROLE THERE?

We have about 8-10 full time employees and I know I want to find something like this after school.

Media One Creative is a video agency and production house, so we work with a lot of cool companies on their video and marketing projects. We’ve worked with a wide range of brands from Budweiser to Tim Horton’s and Microsoft. As an Assistant Project Coordinator I’m in charge of a lot of the organization and administrative work that goes into these projects, and I also help out with shoots sometimes. I worked on a Nike and Blue Jays shoot so that was pretty cool!

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Media One Creative has a strong Ryerson connection. The CEO and COO both went here, and actually one guy from Creative Industries who interned here last year is now working here full time in marketing and sales.

It’s interesting to see that advancement, his coming from Creative Industries and using his final years to shape his learning for that role.

You can really take what you want from this program, which is really good.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED DURING YOUR TIME THERE?

WAS APPLYING FOR THE INTERNSHIP TOUGH?

Summer internships like these are really great because you get to find out whether you like the industry and the role you’re in. Personally, I don’t see myself working in a role like this for my career, but I’m glad I experienced it. I’ve also learned I love working at a small company.

I honestly had so much anxiety about finding an internship, because you’re competing with students from all around, not just your own program. But the staff at Creative Industries were very helpful. I went to a workshop on writing cover letters and resumes, and

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typical tasks:

Create and format work back schedules

Attend creative meetings

Participate in weekly and daily production update meetings

Draft crew deal memos

Update the production management software

got different examples to work off. We also have a job board that lists all the different internships for us, which we could then apply for. I got great feedback right away on my resume from our placement coordinator Alex, and with her help, I was able to find this pretty smoothly.

SO IF YOU DON’T WANT TO WORK IN A ROLE SIMILAR TO WHAT YOU’RE DOING NOW, DO YOU HAVE AN IDEA OF WHAT YOU WANT TO DO? Well, I’m interested in social media and community management, so definitely something like that. I was also looking at a lot of internship roles that wanted people with design skills, which I don’t have, so this year I’m enrolling in a Photoshop course at school to learn.

Once I’m comfortable with graphic design, I might merge that with my social media skills to create my own freelance branding and community management business. This is something I’ve been thinking about while at Ryerson, because so many of the students in Creative Industries are so entrepreneurial.

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We’ve worked with a wide range of brands from Budweiser to Tim Horton’s and Microsoft. As an Assistant Project Coordinator I’m in charge of a lot of the organization and administrative work that goes into these projects, and I also help out with shoots sometimes.

Interface with the creative team to coordinate various aspects of productions

learning outcomes:

data & analysis Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Use a range of approaches and tools to collect and analyze data.

Create call sheets

Work with the Project Coordinator on day-to-day coordination, scheduling, and administrative tasks

digital literacy & technical aptitude

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

teamwork & collaboration

leadership

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

project management

innovation & enterprise

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Adapt to changing demands, integrate new approaches and ideas.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and budget.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

communications CAN YOU DESCRIBE SOME OF THE SKILLS AND KNOW-HOW YOU’VE GAINED IN THIS POSITION? I’ve gained skills in responding to client emails, creating crew deal memos for contractors and vendors, and data entry on Mavenlink which keeps track of all of the expenses.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas for stories and segments.

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SPENCER READ

Toronto Arts Foundation Community Engagement Coordinator Class of 2018

SOME INTERNSHIPS INVOLVE SITTING IN AN OFFICE ALL DAY, BUT YOURS HAS YOU OUT IN THE COMMUNITY. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THAT?

individual citizens who are engaged and respected in the community, cultural and community centres, or parks groups, which are volunteers who take care of the park.

I’m interning at the Toronto Arts Foundation working on its Arts in the Parks initiative, which brings different artistic presentations and performances to parks around Toronto.

I’m working with the North York team as the Community Engagement Coordinator, doing a few different tasks.

The whole point of my position is to gather a whole bunch of locations in North York and people in the community who we can work with and who will promote the initiative in the future.

I’m representing the Foundation at the events, organizing logistics and volunteers for the day, and making sure people attending know what the program is about and when the next events will be.

I’m also doing research on North York as an area, trying to find spaces and times to engage with the community and speak to them about the Arts in the Parks program. I’m trying to speak with as many people as I can to ensure they know about the program, whether it’s

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HAS IT BEEN A GOOD EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER? I’m not totally sure what I want to be doing after school but the good thing about an internship like this is I can try stuff I think I’m interested in and see if I really like it. I’m definitely enjoying it quite a bit. It’s been good experience and I haven’t been rained out too much!

Working in a professional environment like this has been very beneficial, learning about

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typical tasks:

Conduct research around contacts/events pertaining to specific areas in the City

Present information about the program to public

Attend events (community-related and hosted by the organization)

Problem-solve and troubleshoot any issues at events

Assist with event preparation

the culture in the office and how people work. It’s nice too because some of the things I’ve experienced in Creative Industries have transferred to this role; the group work in our school projects is similar to what I’m doing here.

Working with people in the Toronto Arts Foundation and Council is also positive, because on top of these being great organizations, they give me a good reference on my resume that people will recognize.

WHAT WAS THE SEARCH FOR THIS INTERNSHIP LIKE? Well, I started applying to internships in January. I got one or two interviews and didn’t hear anything. Then one day I actually saw this position online, and then saw it again on the Creative Industries job board, and applied through it. I got an interview, went in to talk to them, and by the end of it they offered me the position!

WHAT ABOUT YOUR INTERNSHIP IS THE MOST SURPRISING TO YOU? Most surprising so far has been working with the different individuals on my team, and specifically, discovering the different paths that has led to everyone working together.

WHAT INITIALLY DREW YOU TO CREATIVE INDUSTRIES? Way back, I was planning to pursue performance studies for music. I’d been playing in jazz big bands for years and was getting ready to apply to a program for that.

I’m representing the Foundation at the events, organizing logistics and volunteers for the day, and making sure people attending know what the program is about and when the next events will be.

One day I realized that I was not necessarily as interested in the performance side as a career, but more so in the business side of the arts — the inner workings, behind the scenes.

When I realized that, I was left without much of a plan. I remember the applications were due the next day, and my dad sat down with me with a list of programs I could potentially apply to, and one was Creative Industries.

Although it had only been operating for a year, it piqued my interest the most out of them all, and I’m glad I did because it’s been a good experience.

Conduct one-on-one and group outreach

learning outcomes:

Coordinate volunteers

Represent Arts in the Parks

digital literacy & technical aptitude

data & analysis

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

community engagement

teamwork & collaboration

Contribute to the development and sustainability of the broader community.

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Create and foster collaborative internal and external partnerships.

Contribute to and strengthen communities through effective, proactive outreach.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact and work effectively with others.

leadership

equity, diversity & inclusion

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Identify organization’s equity, diversity and inclusion principles and apply them in the workplace and the community.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

Practice equity and inclusivity by creating an open environment that embraces diversity.

innovation & enterprise

project management

Adapt to changing demands, integrate new approaches and ideas.

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, manage risks associated with a project.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

communications Develop and/or execute marketing plans.

Develop intercultural communication skills.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Understand strategies used to manage disagreement or conflict effectively.

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LAURA MACMULLIN

Arts and Crafts Artist Management Intern Class of 2017

HOW DID YOU WIND UP AT RYERSON? WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES PROGRAM?

and develop a process for being productive.

Creative Industries requires me to think critically about creative work and encourages me to strive for innovation in my assignments.

My initial interest in Ryerson stemmed from discovering the Creative Industries program.

I hadn’t seen anything like it and was enticed by the idea of studying the things that I’m passionate about, such as music and film, while also learning about the challenges professionals face in these industries and how the industries, as a whole, are changing.

I grew up in a pretty small town, and knew for a long time before my last year of high school that I wanted to experience life in a major city. Since moving to Toronto in 2013, both Ryerson and this city have really helped to define my personality and goals.

WHAT ABOUT THIS PROGRAM IS MOST INTERESTING TO YOU? I’ve definitely learned to define my work ethic

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What I think is most interesting about the program is that it is specific enough to each student that you can only get out what you put into it. I’ve always tried to choose courses, even my electives, based on what will complement my academic interests but also reflect the work I do in my mandatory courses. I’ve found that because of this, Creative Industries has taught me a lot about my own tastes.

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE EXPERIENCES IN THE PROGRAM, SO FAR? The music business courses I’ve gotten to take have really helped to prepare me for my internship, and have provided me with the opportunity to learn about the entertainment industry from the perspectives

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typical tasks:

Manage and arrange tour logistics and tour book organization Oversee sales, tracking, distribution and shipping of artist merchandise

of many industry professionals with different, interesting career paths. Each of these courses has helped me to understand how professionals collaborate in the music business and have made me very excited to work in the industry myself.

WHAT WOULD YOU WANT TO TELL PEOPLE WHO ARE CONSIDERING APPLYING TO THE PROGRAM? Be prepared to work with your peers! We do a lot of group work in Creative Industries. It’s an opportunity to build on your interpersonal and professional communication skills.

You’ll also learn to be flexible with your work ethic and work with many different personality types.

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR INTERNSHIP WITH ARTS & CRAFTS? WHY DID YOU WANT TO INTERN THERE? I applied and interviewed for it! I knew immediately that this was the company I wanted to intern for. So many artists represented by Arts & Crafts have been favorites of mine for a long time, and it’s a very admirable and important Canadian music company.

WHAT ARE YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES AT ARTS & CRAFTS? WHAT’S BEEN THE BEST PART OF THE GIG SO FAR, OR THE BEST EXPERIENCE? I work with the Arts & Crafts management team to advance shows and assist with tour preparations, coordinating with industry contacts to ensure a performance runs

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Creative Industries requires me to think critically about creative work and encourages me to strive for innovation in my assignments. smoothly. I also assist with social media for artists, as well as grant applications and post-tour activities such as merchandise reconciliation. I work best having lots of tasks to accomplish, so the advancing process has been a great way for me to take on responsibility while learning about different industry roles, since I often have to reach out to many different individuals when preparing for each show.

HOW DO YOU THINK THIS INTERNSHIP WILL HELP YOUR CAREER? I feel as though my personality has changed since starting at Arts & Crafts, despite the fact that I’m only a little over halfway through my internship. It’s really motivated me to gain more experience working and volunteering in the music industry and has given me an opportunity to apply what I’ve learned in both Creative Industries and other previous experiences in a professional work environment.

Support the writing and submission of grant applications and closures: Starmaker, FACTOR, OMF, MUCHFact, SOCAN Foundation, and PAC

learning outcomes:

data & analysis Succinctly communicate information using a range of methods.

Use a range of approaches and tools to collect and analyze data.

Oversee SOCAN Monthly submission Create and distribute press kits

Manage social media & artist websites Conduct audit of sales

Update databases and calendars

digital literacy & technical aptitude

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

teamwork & collaboration

leadership

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

project management

innovation & enterprise

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and budget.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

community engagement

communications

Create and foster collaborative internal and external partnerships.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Execute marketing and promotional plans.

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REBECCA ZALA

DHX Media Development Intern Class of 2018

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT DHX MEDIA AND WHAT YOU’RE DOING THERE?

HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO WORK IN CHILDREN’S TELEVISION?

DHX Media is a pretty big, multifaceted company with intellectual property. So they have their hands in everything from development to production, licensing, branding, distribution and broadcasting. I’m in the Development Department, so I do a few different things. I review a lot of concept pitches for children’s TV. I’m also creating a database of writers that we can work with in the future as well as a competitive analysis of all the children’s shows coming out in the next few years. And I’m archiving new Degrassi episodes for their website!

I knew I wanted to work in the arts without necessarily being the artist or holding the camera. It’s nice to know I can use my skills, have a vision, think creatively and still have an important role despite not being the main person doing the artistry.

One of the most exciting things happened in my second week when I got to go to a voice actor audition where a lot of big child actors were auditioning. From my work I knew these people were on pretty major preschool shows like Paw Patrol and Daniel Tiger’s Neighbourhood.

Once I made it known this is what I wanted to get into, our internship coordinator Alex really helped me find something. She told me about an FCAD career chat that was featuring a Family Channel rep (which is owned by DHX). I went and talked to him, and she was beside me helping me, like, “Ok now you should ask for his business card!” So I got his

At Ryerson, I took a children’s programming class, and that’s what started to pull me here. I also realized I want some value to my job, and being in charge of what’s going into children’s homes across the country is one of the most important jobs I can think of.

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typical tasks:

Review concept pitches

Archive television episodes Update websites

card and followed up a while later, asking if he knew of any openings. He passed me to DHX and we went from there.

DO YOU SEE YOURSELF DOING A SIMILAR ROLE IN THE FUTURE? I’d ideally like to stay in development, but I think I’ll want to work full-time in a smaller production company, where I’ll be pitching concepts to broadcasters instead of receiving them. Seeing this side of the industry and being the person that reviews the pitches has been great for me, because it’s hard to learn about if you’re not in it. Nobody’s going to put their failed television pitch online for you to see.

There are some people who pitch to DHX who are animators in their basement, and then there’s some who are actual production companies who have a history of producing shows. So understanding the differences between companies and their goals has helped me kind of figure out where I want to go.

LIKE MANY RYERSON STUDENTS, YOU’VE SPENT YOUR FIRST FEW YEARS COMMUTING TO SCHOOL. WHAT’S THAT LIKE? It’s a lot of listening to good tunes! Seriously though, I would download the PDFs of my readings for the subway commute down. I

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Seeing this side of the industry and being the person that reviews the pitches has been great for me, because it’s hard to learn about if you’re not in it. actually think one year I read a 500 page book on my phone throughout my commuting.

What I would say to commuters though is that you should try to find out what student clubs you’re interested in and find a community.

I got really involved with Poetic Exchange, and I’ve been on the poetry team the past two years. The value in spoken word really is the community, and I think that’s important for anyone, because otherwise you just finish your class and go home. If I’m commuting I don’t want to travel to Ryerson just for my class and leave. I try to make the most out of my time and get some work done, or hang with friends, or go to a school event. It makes the experience so much better.

Create database of all current and upcoming kids’ shows and films

Attend auditions

Update database of all children’s writers and their genres/agents

digital literacy & technical aptitude

innovation & enterprise

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

leadership

project management

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

data & analysis

teamwork & collaboration

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Write response letters for TV show pitches

learning outcomes:

Attend meetings

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight /interpret data and inform decisionmaking.

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

communications Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Research relevant ideas for new productions.

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CHRISTINE PHAM

WHAT KIND OF WORK ARE YOU DOING AT WARNER MUSIC CANADA? I’m a Digital Sales Intern in the Marketing Department, and part of my job is to populate Spotify, Apple Music and Deezer with playlists.

We have curators creating playlists and it’s my job to make sure they get up on these streaming services each week, especially on Fridays when a lot of new music comes out.

I’m also running some of their social media accounts, specifically the Topsify brand which is a collection of playlists on Spotify.

HAVE YOU LEARNED A LOT ABOUT THE MUSIC INDUSTRY THROUGH YOUR INTERNSHIP? From what I’ve experienced so far, I’m starting to understand how number driven the industry is. This is something I always knew in the back of my mind, but I didn’t know what that actually looked like until I got to Warner.

When you’re really focused on driving

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Warner Music Canada Digital Sales Intern Class of 2018

consumption, there’s a bit of a formula you need to follow, which is interesting. I’ve been learning what times are the best to post and how to best phrase things to get the most engagement on social posts.

The value of this internship is as much the learning as it is meeting people. Putting yourself out there in a large company like Warner can be kind of intimidating, but I’m really trying to meet people and take advantage of my short time here. I’ve already met a couple of people that I could see helping me with my career in this industry. I love music, and I see myself in it after graduation.

YOU’RE A VERY CREATIVE PERSON, WHY DID YOU CHOOSE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES INSTEAD OF A PURELY ARTISTIC DEGREE? I almost accepted an offer to study fine art at another university, but I wasn’t sure what I was personally going to do with a degree like that. I wanted to do something creative,

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typical tasks:

but I didn’t know of many programs that were creatively-oriented, but also practical.

When I found Creative Industries, I was like, “This is perfect!” It’s narrow enough and can help push you in a direction you want to go, because you get to choose what fields you want to study, but it’s not restrictive. You have the opportunity to try different things.

Coming out of high school I thought I had everything down, but it turned out that wasn’t the case. In the past few years I’ve learned so much about myself, not just creatively, but in terms of what I want for myself. This program has helped me become more introspective.

Creativity is something that’s very personal for me, and everything I’m doing in my classes has a personal undertone to it, which has helped me figure out where I want to go with my career.

We had a project in CRI 400 where we had to go out and interview a creative entrepreneur, and I interviewed somebody who started his own music agency. I learned a lot from that project, because it was so hands on, talking to someone really in the field. Talking to him helped me think about what kind of work I want to do and what environment I want to be in.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO PEOPLE THINKING OF APPLYING TO CREATIVE INDUSTRIES? If they can, they should definitely get in touch with people who are already in the program and get some insight from them. It’s a really great program.

Assist with running social media accounts (writing copy, editing copy, scheduling content to be published, rescheduling and re-ordering as needed) on various platforms Maintain and update content on artist and label YouTube channels Update playlists on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer (search for songs and add them individually to playlists)

The value of this internship is as much the learning as it is meeting people.

The strength of Creative Industries is how it implements business and entrepreneurship.

Personally, I find it incredibly practical and unique, because I don’t know of anything else like this. You get two worlds in one convenient little package with this program.

WHAT THREE PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL TAKEAWAYS OR INSIGHTS HAVE YOU GAINED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE? 1. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; when in doubt, reach out.

2. Always make a strong effort to maintain a good work ethic and high standards. Show up on time, be nice to everyone, approach every task with enthusiasm.

3. The music industry is a very fast-paced environment. Help yourself and others by delivering your work on time, and make sure the quality is there. Ask for help if completing tasks alone becomes difficult.

Update and maintain content for company website (www.warnermusic.ca)

learning outcomes:

Assist with company CRM initiatives, including weekly company email newsletters Assist with sales reporting and ticketing

Update a variety of Excel spreadsheets based on department needs

Assist in the assembly of the bi-weekly internal marketing bulletins Assist with the execution of artist campaigns and contest fulfillment General admin duties

digital literacy & technical aptitude

leadership

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

data & analysis

teamwork & collaboration

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Use data findings to gain insight and inform decision-making.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

innovation & enterprise

project management

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

communications Develop and/or execute marketing plans.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

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DANIEL MITCHELL

Bell Media: The Marilyn Denis Show Production Intern Class of 2018

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK AT THE MARILYN DENIS SHOW? CAN YOU BRIEFLY DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE AT THE SHOW?

HAS THIS INTERNSHIP BENEFITED YOU PROFESSIONALLY?

A few years ago I was in the audience for the show and thought it might be a fun place to work. I’ve had an amazing experience here.

Throughout my time, I’ve had the opportunity to try so many different things.

My main role is dealing with the audience — putting out calls, organizing members on the day of the show, and organizing audience prizing. I did a lot of segment research for different parts of the show and got to go on some field trips for different shoots. I also sat in on pitch meetings, so I experienced what it’s like building the show segment, watching everyone go around the room and pitch their creative ideas. I’ve really liked all of it.

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Definitely, in a few different ways. This internship was really about getting real life experience. I was part of a team working together on different tasks each day as they came up, helping with whatever people needed.

Learning about the professional environment was huge for me. I was exposed to so many positions and parts of television that I really feel I understand the industry right now. I’ve seen the specific day-to-day jobs of writers, segment producers, set designers and more.

Working at a major company like Bell (which produces The Marilyn Denis Show) is also a big deal. Having that name on your resume and the contacts I made at my internship are really valuable things.

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typical tasks:

Assist with live broadcasts and all areas of production Research segment pieces

Assist with audience load-in

DID YOU FIND YOURSELF USING SKILLS YOU LEARNED AT CREATIVE INDUSTRIES DURING YOUR INTERNSHIP? The research skills I’ve learned in university and courses I took on developing creativity were very helpful. Researching stories and pitching potential segments relies on your ability to think creatively and dig through news and culture to find something unique and interesting. You really have to think outside of the box to find something suitable for the show.

HOW HAS YOUR OVERALL EXPERIENCE AT THE SCHOOL OF CREATIVE INDUSTRIES BEEN? Creative Industries is such a special program.

Coming into university, I didn’t want to be restricted in my learning and contained to one specific area. So being in a program where you choose your own path and what you want to learn is amazing.

You gain a lot of tangible skills through Creative Industries. I’ve learned about digital literacy, social media and financial management, all from an arts-focused view.

WHAT THREE TAKEAWAYS OR INSIGHTS (PERSONAL AND OR PROFESSIONAL) HAVE YOU GAINED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE? 1. It’s possible to be in a professional environment that allows your creativity to flourish.

2. Being a successful intern at the Marilyn Denis show isn’t as hard as I thought it would be.

3. Being at Bell Media has reaffirmed that I belong in a creative industry and I enjoy the non-traditional office structure.

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I was exposed to so many positions and parts of television that I really feel I understand the industry right now.

I’ve seen the specific day-to-day jobs of writers, segment producers, set designers and more.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE SOME OF THE SKILLS YOU’VE GAINED DURING THIS INTERNSHIP? I’ve gained a number of skills so far. Firstly, my verbal communication has become more refined as a result of having to speak professionally to audience members (clients) daily, in person and over the phone. I’ve learned what the typical email structure within an organization looks like. I’ve had to work with 5 fellow interns to solve problems and to distribute daily task work evenly. This has taught me what it’s like to work effectively with others in a professional work environment.

Additionally, I’ve had to use Microsoft Excel to input audience member information. I’ve gained the skill of becoming a more selfsufficient problem solver when dealing with daily tasks. Overall, I’m a lot more confident as a person, much more confident than I was when I first started in early May.

Develop and pitch fresh segment ideas

learning outcomes:

Attend field shoots Manage props

Update databases Organize prizes

Communicate with audience, guests and producers

data & analysis

teamwork & collaboration

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight/interpret data and inform decisionmaking.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

project management

leadership

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

innovation & enterprise

communications

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas for stories and segments.

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ELAINA PAWELKA

Artscape Youngplace Communications & Promotional Intern Class of 2018

SO YOU’RE AT ARTSCAPE YOUNGPLACE, WHICH YOU HAD YOUR HEART SET ON FOR A WHILE, RIGHT?

AND WHAT’S YOUR ROLE THERE?

I had my eye on Artscape for a while after I went to an exhibition at Youngplace in September 2016. When I saw the exhibition wasn’t just in a gallery but sprawling across rooms and floors, and people were bustling all around, I realized how incredible this building is. Seeing people from all walks of life appreciating it is amazing, and it makes interacting with art not as intimidating. I was lucky to get this position because I really wanted it and didn’t apply to many other places!

At Artscape we do a lot of arts programming, from children’s arts summer camp to hosting artists in our hallway galleries. We also have studios people can rent out hourly up to full weeks and they can be used for anything — from a conference to a studio to a fitness class.

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I’m the Communications & Promotional Intern, which means a lot of things. Technically I handle our website, social media accounts, blogs, newsletters and flyers, and I also deal with client and customer service. Often these things go together, so when we get a new exhibition coming in I work with the client to make sure we’re promoting it across our channels and getting people to come.

However, Artscape as an organization is very horizontal and we all wear many hats. When something needs to get done the whole team is working on it, so I’ve been working on a bunch of different random projects which I love. One minute I might be working the back end of our website, then the next I’ll be learning how to build a contract and helping a client set up their space.

I like multitasking and keeping busy rather than getting stuck in a rut with the same menial tasks. Creative Industries prepares you

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typical tasks:

Respond to clients, renters, general inquiries via phone, email and in person

Assist with social media channels

Design building flyers for events, exhibitions and programs

Administrative duties

Update website and blog

for this, because we’re thrown into multiple realms in our classes. It’s been a very exciting and hands-on learning experience for me.

I’m learning a lot about what I’m good at and what I need to improve.

YOU TOOK A BIT OF A NON-TRADITIONAL PATH TO UNIVERSITY. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THAT? Yes, well, in high school I danced ballet and my teachers and family told me if I wanted to do it professionally, I had to try it then.

School would always be there, my ability to dance wouldn’t. So I got to train in England and then join the Israel Ballet. I performed professionally for three years touring around the world, which was amazing.

When I came home, I was dancing part time, teaching ballet and working multiple side jobs to make ends meet, and it was too much.

I had that experience of being an artist and something else, because I couldn’t afford to dance full time, and the amount of practice hours needed to be a classical ballet dancer didn’t allow much time for work. I was tired of going from contract to contract, dancing, teaching and working side jobs — I needed some stability. I knew I didn’t want to teach ballet forever, but I also didn’t want to study something that totally disregarded my time as a dancer.

AND SCHOOL OFFERED THAT? When I found Creative Industries, it was the best of both worlds — I realized instead of performing I could be on the other side of the

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learning outcomes:

When I found Creative Industries, it was the best of both worlds — I realized instead of performing I could be on the other side of the stage. stage. It was an opportunity for me to have a new career by building on the skills I gained through dancing. It’s given me the chance to work somewhere I love, and I’m grateful for that.

DESCRIBE THREE TAKEAWAYS OR INSIGHTS THAT YOU HAVE GAINED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE: 1. Organize your e-mail inbox 2. You wear many hats in the not-for-profit sector 3. Team work and collaboration are paramount 4. Always be closing 5. Good vibes or goodbye

Create and distribute bi-weekly e-mails regarding the internal calendar Research and write new content for blog

communications

teamwork & collaboration

Develop and/or execute marketing plans.

Develop intercultural communication skills.

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

community engagement

leadership

Contribute to the development and sustainability of the broader community.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Inspire, contribute to, and strengthen communities through proactive and effective outreach.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

Create and foster collaborative internal and external partnerships.

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

project management

innovation & enterprise

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

equity, diversity & inclusion Identify organization’s equity, diversity and inclusion principles and apply them in the workplace.

Practice equity and inclusivity by intentionally creating an open environment that embraces diversity, individual perspectives, histories and their narratives.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

digital literacy & technical aptitude

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

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CINDY TANG

HOLT RENFREW HAS GIVEN YOU A KIND OF CUSTOM WORK EXPERIENCE — CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THAT? I work in the ecommerce department for three days, and for the other two I’m at the studio that’s in the Holt Renfrew store, shadowing under a stylist and assisting them with product photoshoots.

I went into the interview not knowing if they’d even consider me, because they’re a big company with a lot of talent coming in. And the intern position was an open application, not for a specific role. They asked me what I was interested in because they wanted to build the internship around my goals. I told them I wanted to strengthen my marketing and communications skills and get hands on experience in the fashion industry, which I had learned about in school.

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Holt Renfrew Omni Channel Intern Class of 2018

AND THIS IS ALL FOR A MAJOR PROJECT, RIGHT? Yes! My internship is geared to a huge project that Holt Renfrew is doing right now, which is an app for their sales associates. It’s to help them sell to clients better. It will have product catalogues so they can see where the products are in stock. It will also have a customer history, so you can see what they’ve bought over the past few years. And it will have some communications tools in it. In my role, I help get the products and style them to look nice for the shoot, then integrate the photos into the platform.

It’s interesting that Holt Renfrew is going for an app, because they sell more of an experience to customers. They’re giving tech to their associates to help them make customers feel more comfortable. This is very unique.

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typical tasks:

Update product information for the upcoming retail mobile app for their sales associates

Follow up with vendors about providing assets to Holt Renfrew’s catalogue

Prepare merchandise for photoshoots

Ensure assets are properly named from the vendor style number and in the database

Help pull merchandise for photoshoots

WHAT HAS SHADOWING YOUR CO-WORKERS IN THE STUDIO BEEN LIKE? Shadowing people and learning from them has been really valuable, because I didn’t really know what I specifically wanted to do before. Hearing the experiences from the more senior staff members has helped me figure out what I’m interested in.

People don’t have to wait for this internship to get that help, though. I would say if you’re coming into Creative Industries, try to connect with people you’re interested in from day one.

Ask them for coffee or see if you can shadow them on their job. The hands-on experience can help you so much.

It’s not difficult to find interesting people to talk to. You just have to be willing to put yourself out there to connect with them.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE SOMETHING YOU LEARNED THIS SUMMER THAT SURPRISED YOU? How technical fashion can be! School and media can glamourize the process into something akin to art, but in reality, fashion is a lot of hard work and technical processes, especially in retail environments.

CAN YOU MENTION WHICH COURSES IN PARTICULAR WERE MOST USEFUL THIS SUMMER AND EXPLAIN WHY? CRI300 – Design Studio: Having an understanding of how to use creative programs helped provide insight into how to style products for more creative digital marketing purposes.

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Choose/scout possible products to use in future shoots Connect with vendors about product information

Hearing the experiences from the more senior staff members has helped me figure out what I’m interested in.

GMS450 – Project Management: Project management has been one of the most useful courses for me. As my role here at Holt Renfrew deals specifically with a new project that Holt Renfrew is launching in the F/W season, knowing some of the programs that project managers use and/or how to effectively manage a project has helped me understand how efficiently the project is progressing.

FSN400 – Fashion in International Markets: This course was helpful in understanding some terminology in the industry.

Other experiences that I found useful were through many of the school projects that offer solutions to real organizations. It is useful having the experience of talking with individuals who may be in more senior roles in order to find a solution for them.

learning outcomes:

Track down product assets and brand vendors

Assist in both the head office and the photo studio to provide support with a range of administrative and production activities Update Excel database

digital literacy & technical aptitude

community engagement

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Create and foster collaborative internal and external partnerships.

data & analysis

innovation & enterprise

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight /interpret data and inform decision making.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

leadership

project management

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

teamwork & collaboration

communications

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

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NICHOLAS NAVARRO

United Talent Agency (UTA) Administrative Intern Class of 2018

HOW DID YOU GET IN THE DOOR AT UTA?

I’ve got to work with some bigger acts as well.

I booked Vance Joy’s set at Osheaga and worked with Broken Social Scene, which was cool.

I applied to a ton of places, but once I got an interview with UTA it went really smoothly from there. I told them I was interested in the legal and business side of music, which they’re really known for. So when I said that, they were basically really excited.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE ON THE LAW SIDE OF MUSIC THERE? I’m working on the legal side of the deal when bands are working with promoters to play shows. This means I’m the guy who makes sure everyone understands how much tickets are, how much the band will charge for merch, stuff like that. I also have to track payments, ensure contact info is correct, research artists, venues and promoters...there’s a lot of different stuff.

HOW HAVE YOU USED YOUR EDUCATION IN YOUR INTERNSHIP? DESCRIBE WHICH COURSES IN PARTICULAR WERE MOST USEFUL. Business of music I and II were essential for learning about different deals and legal clauses. Another important class was live event marketing, given that the professor works in the industry. These two were very useful when understanding the basics of a contract. Also, finance was a huge help with understanding financial statements and the expenses of a show.

I’m specifically focused on indie and alternative bands in Ontario, working with agents booking campus and private shows.

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typical tasks:

Draft, revise and edit contracts for bands to play at shows

Create spreadsheets and calendars to plan and schedule upcoming projects or events

Write out all legal details of each show

Update and manage a variety of spreadsheets to organize and analyze date relating to performances and ticket counts)

Calculate the earnings and all expenses on tickets and merchandise

YOU DID A YEAR OF COMMUNICATIONS AT ANOTHER UNIVERSITY BEFORE YOU CAME TO RYERSON. WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO CREATIVE INDUSTRIES? I’m a musician, so I was originally going to pursue jazz guitar, but my parents — being realistic — didn’t think it was a great idea. So I applied to a few different university programs.

I included Creative Industries, but I got on the waitlist. So I went to a different school, but I felt like I didn’t go outside for a whole semester. I missed Toronto’s multiculturalism and the fact that there’s always something going on.

So I applied to Creative Industries again, and again got on the waitlist. I would call the school at least once a week asking if I was going to get in!

It’s definitely been a good change. The stuff I’m doing with Creative Industries has shown me it’s the perfect place for me to start building a successful career in music.

HOW HAS THAT EXPERIENCE BEEN? It’s been kind of overwhelming, but in a good way. There’s a lot of pressure in this industry, which can be really stressful. We’ve had a lot of classes in Creative Industries to help us prepare for the reality of working in an intense professional environment, but it can still be a shock. I’ve learned that throwing away your personal ego and looking at the bigger picture is important, because you’re going to get feedback and people will push you to improve and do better.

I’m working on the legal side of the deal when bands are working with promoters to play shows. This means I’m the guy who makes sure everyone understands how much tickets are, how much the band will charge for merch, stuff like that.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE THREE TAKEAWAYS (PERSONAL AND OR PROFESSIONAL) THAT YOU’VE GAINED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE? Dedication and patience are key.

Ask questions as much as possible. Accept feedback and focus on how you can benefit from new experiences.

Assist with all details regarding the contract between the promoter and artist

learning outcomes:

Create itineraries for managers prior to their show

Social media management (checking and confirming accuracy of online promotional information)

File contracts

digital literacy & technical aptitude

communications

Data entry and other general administrative duties

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

leadership

data & analysis

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight /interpret data and inform/advise decision making.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

project management

innovation & enterprise

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

teamwork & collaboration Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

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TANYA CHOWDHURY

Media One Creative Inc. Sales & Marketing Intern Class of 2018

YOU’VE WORKED ON SOME PRETTY COOL PROJECTS AT MEDIA ONE CREATIVE, CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT THEM?

WOW, WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO GET A PROJECT LIKE THAT SO QUICKLY? HAVE YOU EVER DONE ANYTHING LIKE IT BEFORE?

I’m the Sales & Marketing Intern, so I work on behind the scenes photography on shoots, then create these photobooks that we then deliver to the clients. I also help out with our social media playbook and am actually creating the branding guidelines for the company.

Creating the branding guidelines is really cool, especially because I’m going to get to take a copy with me and use it for my portfolio.

I can’t wait to do that because having that name behind you makes you so much more credible. I can say, “Look, I’ve actually done this!”

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Being given the trust to create something that the company is going to follow even after I’m gone is exciting. It’s a step up from what I expected and it’s put everything I’ve been learning over the past few years into perspective through a real life example.

It’s funny, I did a semester abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland last semester and one of our projects was actually creating branding guidelines, so I’ve had some practice. Going abroad was amazing. The friends, the culture, the school system, it was incredible. I miss it so much already!

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typical tasks:

Create photobooks

Develop brand guidelines Conduct market research

Assist the Sales Manager and Sales & Marketing Coordinator with day-to-day tasks Manage in-house client experience

DO YOU FIND YOURSELF USING THINGS YOU’VE LEARNED IN SCHOOL AT YOUR JOB? Creative Industries kind of makes you a jack of all trades, which comes in handy at the most random times. I know random things that other people don’t get in their programs, like IP law, how to find royalty-free music, or mini hacks of how to easily use Photoshop. I’ll often be working on a problem at work and thinking to myself, “Oh yeah, I learned about this in school!”

For example, I took Media Business a couple years ago and we learned how to create an invoice. At my internship, we had a problem with one of our invoices and I almost immediately knew how to solve it, which was really nice because they wouldn’t expect someone like me to be able to know how to do that.

DO YOU SEE YOURSELF WORKING IN A SIMILAR ROLE IN THE FUTURE? I’m a little more artistically driven, so I don’t think I’ll want to do sales full time when I’m done school. But it’s definitely been a good experience learning it because it will help give me some credibility and understanding with both types of people. Wherever I work in the future, I’ll be able to meet both sides’ expectations rather than getting lost in jargon.

When I was applying to university, I actually initially wanted to go into graphic design. But my parents said I couldn’t just think about art, I needed to think about the business side

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It’s put everything I’ve been learning over the past few years into perspective through a real life example. too, which is a valuable point. So I was trying to figure out how I could please myself and please my parents too, and I found Creative Industries, and it’s been amazing!

DESCRIBE THREE TAKEAWAYS ( PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL) THAT YOU’VE GAINED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE: I have learnt that: 1. Being open to things that make you uncomfortable is the only way to learn new skills.

2. Being a jack of all trades comes in handy when everyone is busy or stressed because then you can be valuable to anyone and are not limited to a single type or task.

3. A smile goes a long way in networking.

learning outcomes:

Fix website bugs

Create and schedule content for Hootsuite and social media posts Develop structures for email campaigns Create marketing assets

Contribute to brainstorms for client pitches Attend meetings

communications

community engagement

Develop and/or execute marketing plans.

Create and foster collaborative internal and external partnerships.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas for clients.

project management

data & analysis

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight /interpret data and advise decision making.

leadership

teamwork & collaboration

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

digital literacy & technical aptitude

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

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RAVEN WILKINSON

On Q Communications Social Media Content Creator and Media Relations Assistant Class of 2017

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO APPLY TO THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES PROGRAM? WHAT ABOUT IT APPEALED TO YOU?

each student’s interests and career goals are so unique. I’ve been able to learn from my peers and professors with different competencies, and that is something I really value. Every single class has included group work, so I’ve developed both my teamwork and leadership skills. Business is a core aspect of the program, so I’ve also been able to learn crucial lessons in fields like accounting, marketing, management and entrepreneurship. I’ve been able to take courses in public speaking, participatory media, video and image editing, and much more. Even if I can’t name every single skill I’ve acquired and developed, I know I have and will apply them subconsciously in the future.

I applied to the program because at the time, I wasn’t sure exactly which direction I wanted to go into. Creative Industries gave me the opportunity to explore a number of different fields — including business — and really figure out what I want to do in the future. I was also glad I could gain practical experience with a work placement, and even take my studies overseas by studying abroad. The program seemed extremely well-rounded and wellthought-out, and it was perfect for me.

WHAT ABOUT THIS PROGRAM IS MOST INTERESTING TO YOU? WHAT ARE THE MOST VALUABLE NEW SKILLS YOU’VE DEVELOPED, SO FAR? Actually, it’s not so much the program as it is the people this program attracts. Even though we’re all in the same program,

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WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE WORKING WITH MASS EXODUS, RYERSON’S ANNUAL FASHION SHOW? As Communications Director for Mass Exodus, I oversaw the Public Relations & Marketing

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typical tasks:

Research and write content for blog posts Manage social media accounts

Correspond with media, clients, and vendors

and Visitor Experience committees. My job was to make sure the Mass Exodus brand was communicated consistently, our social media accounts were engaging, guests were seated quickly and enjoyed themselves, and we received adequate sponsorship and media coverage. Located in Ryerson’s Student Learning Centre for the first time, this experience was both challenging and exciting, and allowed me to work with a diverse team and exercise and develop my professional skills.

AS A CREATIVE INDUSTRIES STUDENT, WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING ABLE TO COLLABORATE WITH OTHER SCHOOLS, LIKE THE FASHION SCHOOL? It’s great to collaborate with students from other schools in the Faculty of Communication and Design because they are the people that we will potentially be working with once we enter the workforce. We are able to network early on in our professional careers, learn from each other, and exercise our teamwork skills by working with people who have different experiences and perspectives. Collaboration also allows us to develop relationships with people we may not have gotten the chance to meet if it weren’t for this program.

In this program, we are able to network early on in our professional careers, learn from each other, and exercise our teamwork skills by working with people who have different experiences and perspectives.

WORKING THIS SUMMER AS AN INTERN AT A COMMUNICATIONS AND PR FIRM, HOW DO YOU FEEL YOU USED YOUR EDUCATION IN YOUR INTERNSHIP? I have used my knowledge of media relations, blog writing, email writing, and my ability to brainstorm and problem solve during my internship. In particular have used my communications classes to create graphics, my fashion promotion class for external outreach, and my project management class to prepare gantt charts. I am sure my education has helped me in many subtle ways as well, in the way I think, approach tasks, and accomplish what I need to do.

learning outcomes:

Connect with influencers

Brainstorm new strategies for campaigns and partnerships

Coordinate events

Draft press releases

digital literacy & technical aptitude

project management

Apply nuanced understanding to navigate and use digital tools.

Synthesize information from multiple sources; make decisions and align actions to achieve desired goals.

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Develop key contacts and contribute to media relations

Develop and/or execute project and event plans, coordinate with others, manage risks associated with a project.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

leadership

teamwork & collaboration

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

innovation & enterprise

data & analysis

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight /interpret data and inform decisionmaking.

community engagement

communications

Create and foster collaborative internal and external partnerships.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Contribute to and strengthen communities through proactive and effective outreach.

Develop and execute marketing and promotional plans Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas for online content and promotions.

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STEPHANIE FRANCISCO

CTV/Bell Media: Marketing Department Social Media & Marketing Intern Class of 2018

WHAT’S IT LIKE IN THE MARKETING DEPARTMENT OF CTV AND BELL MEDIA?

a lot about social media from my coordinator.

I could definitely see myself in a similar role after graduation, maybe at Bell because I love the work environment.

It’s a lot of fun! I’m focused on social media, so I post a lot of the show’s clips on the websites, monitor their social media accounts, and do some live tweeting during shows. I also work with the design team who create some promotional videos and graphics that I caption and get up online. I have a lot of creative freedom around what we post, which is nice. I’m also constantly making GIFs with Photoshop, which I luckily took a class on at Ryerson!

SO YOU’RE ENJOYING YOUR WORK? I honestly didn’t think I would like my internship as much as I do, especially because it’s a 9-5 job in an office. But I’ve really enjoyed all the work I’ve been doing and as the internship has progressed, I’ve been able to take on more responsibility. I’ve also learned

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My favourite part of the job is live tweeting, which we were doing a lot of during Amazing Race Canada. It’s awesome to interact with the fans on the spot. We’d have a lot of people retweeting our stuff and replying back to us, which was cool.

IS BELL A TOUGH COMPANY TO GET INTO? I applied for a couple positions at Bell, including this and Brand Partnerships. The Marketing Team was the first to respond to me and ask me in for an interview, and when I got there I was in a room being interviewed by five of their Marketing Coordinators!

That was a surprise, but they were each from a different Bell brand trying to figure out where

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typical tasks:

Provide executional support for traditional, event, digital and social media marketing

Write content, collect assets and assist with the development of editorial and production calendars Use social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Snapchat and Instagram.

Live tweet coverage of shows and events.

Post catch-up episodes, video clips, respond to questions on social media

I would fit the best, and they wanted me at CTV. I was really happy because it was my first internship interview and I got it.

I initially found the posting on our online job board, and Bell has hired a lot of interns from our program. I think they like what we offer.

COMING TO UNIVERSITY, DID YOU THINK YOU’D BE DOING SOMETHING LIKE THIS? Not initially. I did a year in psychology at Ryerson, and though I really enjoyed the material, I couldn’t see myself going forward with it as a career. During that time, I was actually able to take a Creative Industries class as one of my electives, and I really liked the mix of business and creative aspects, which was a better fit for me than psychology. When I transferred into the program I had to start in first year again, but it was definitely worth it.

DO YOU THINK IT’S IMPORTANT TO HAVE WORK OPPORTUNITIES LIKE THIS WHILE IN SCHOOL? Definitely! That’s actually part of the reason I chose Creative Industries — because I knew about the internship. I really wanted this experience and I think it’s really going to help me once I graduate.

I’ve really enjoyed all the work I’ve been doing and as the internship has progressed, I’ve been able to take on more responsibility. I’ve also learned a lot about social media from my coordinator.

I could definitely see myself in a similar role after graduation.

WHAT ABOUT YOUR INTERNSHIP IS THE MOST SURPRISING TO YOU? I think the most surprising thing about it was the amount of work monitoring social media accounts is. Even though I have used all of these platforms for personal use, it’s different when you take on the role at a company and have to produce the content a consumer sees.

learning outcomes:

Assist with preparing more frequent reports using Facebook Insights, Twitter Analytics, Google Analytics, Hootsuite and Sysomos Create lists of relevant social profiles across multiple platforms; monitor on an ongoing basis Proofread marketing assets to ensure their accuracy and alignment to brief

data & analysis

communications

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Develop and/or execute marketing plans.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight/interpret data and inform decision-making.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

digital literacy & technical aptitude

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

community engagement

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Create and foster collaborative internal and external partnerships.

project management

teamwork & collaboration

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Understand department goals & vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Contribute to and strengthen communities through effective, proactive outreach.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

innovation & enterprise

leadership

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

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Collect and compile stats for multiplatform campaign reporting (data reports, daily audience info), along with other internal requests

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

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MIKAYLA STEFANI

eOne Marketing & Promotions Intern Class of 2018

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR ROLE AT eONE? I’m a Marketing & Promotions Intern in the film department, working on the national campaigns for the films we have. Some things I do are brainstorm ideas for new campaigns to do with brands, work on the creative process and get artwork approved, and run some online content we publish.

skills is key here, especially between teams.

The group work in the program really helped me with that. It also taught me how to balance multiple projects at once and not get too stressed out. The balance between business and art is also a common theme in our classes and it’s helped me navigate some situations here, especially when working with filmmakers who can be quite protective of their art and creative vision.

The big project I’ve been working on since I started has been Valerian, and we’ve done a lot of cool projects with it. We did a contest with Ben and Jerry’s to win $1,000 worth of ice cream and a private screening of the movie, and it did really well!

Through this internship, I’ve applied what I learned and gained some real life experience.

I feel much more confident about graduating next year because I feel like I’ve got solid experience and made good connections in the industry I want to work in.

HOW HAS YOUR TIME AT CREATIVE INDUSTRIES PREPARED YOU FOR IT?

HAS THE TRANSITION FROM SCHOOL TO A FULL-TIME ROLE BEEN TOUGH?

A lot of what I’ve learned in Creative Industries has helped a lot during my internship. More generally, having strong communications

When I was in school I always thought I was tired and had so much work to do. After working full-time, I’ve realized school is not

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typical tasks:

Project management

Coordinate promotional giveaways

Coordinate artwork approvals

Update budgets/status spreadsheets

Brief creative teams

Organize contest fulfillment

Administrative duties, including scheduling and invoicing

learning outcomes:

as demanding as I thought. It’s definitely a transition but you get used to it, and I’m really happy I got this experience. I’ve learned the importance of going to bed early and how important coffee can be!

WHY DID YOU ORIGINALLY CHOOSE THE SCHOOL OF CREATIVE INDUSTRIES? I chose Creative Industries because when I finished high school I didn’t really know what I wanted to do and I didn’t want to limit myself.

This degree is so open and there’s a bunch of different paths you can follow. After a couple of years of trying different courses and subjects I’ve started to find my path and it’s led me here. And I’m very happy about that!

HOW HAVE YOU USED YOUR EDUCATION IN YOUR INTERNSHIP? CAN YOU DESCRIBE WHICH COURSES IN PARTICULAR WERE MOST USEFUL? All of my communication courses were useful.

They helped me learn how to communicate effectively in a business environment.

Although I do not use it a lot, my finance class was also useful because I have an understanding of finance when it comes up at work.

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The balance between business and art is also a common theme in our classes and it’s helped me navigate some situations here, especially when working with filmmakers who can be quite protective of their art and creative vision.

CAN YOU LIST THREE TAKEAWAYS (PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL) THAT YOU’VE GAINED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE? Make good relationships with everyone you can, ask questions, and always be ready to give a helping hand.

Create Powerpoints

Brainstorm ideas for campaigns Researche brand partnerships

Coordinate and manage online content

data & analysis

project management

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight /interpret data and inform decision making.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

teamwork & collaboration

leadership

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

digital literacy & technical aptitude

community engagement

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Create and foster collaborative internal and external partnerships.

innovation & enterprise

communications

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Develop and/or execute marketing plans.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas for new campaigns.

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QUINCY CLARKE

YOU PRIMARILY WORKED ON THE INNERSPACE TV SHOW, BUT THAT WASN’T YOUR ONLY FOCUS AT YOUR INTERNSHIP RIGHT? You’re right! I worked as a Production Assistant on InnerSpace, which is on the Space channel.

Space is actually owned by Bell, so there were a lot of diverse opportunities for me.

The most exciting opportunity was probably working on the red carpet for the MuchMusic Video Awards. I got to work with the Entertainment News team creating research packages on the different musicians and actors coming across the carpet. So I would be researching what’s been going on with them, they’re upcoming projects, stuff like that for the hosts so we could capture content that was pretty much streaming live. It was stressful, but really interesting.

Bell Media: InnerSpace Production Assistant Class of 2018

WHAT’S IT LIKE WORKING ON THE RED CARPET? It’s pretty hectic! There’s so many people coming down the carpet and you don’t have much time to research, so it’s a bit of a juggling act to decide who we really want to interview and if we can grab them. It’s basically a fight between us and the other red carpet broadcasters, because we’re all in a line and it’s a lot of on the fly decisionmaking.

One of the people who came by was KJ Apa, who plays Archie Andrews on Riverdale.

He’s really tall in person, so that was cool to see. I found out he was staying in Toronto to present an award and then heading to Vancouver to film the next season of Riverdale.

So after finding this info, I could shape some interesting questions for him.

I also created a research pack for San Diego Comic Con, because InnerSpace had a special episode premiering there, so that was cool.

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typical tasks:

Pitch story ideas

Ingest footage into AVID interplay

Produce and run high volume, large scale events

Shadow various roles (segment producers, designers, etc)

Media storytelling

Monitor social media analytics Prepare research packs

Complete music cue logs (data entry)

COULD YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THIS INDUSTRY AFTER YOU GRADUATE? Through my experience working in television at this internship, I could now see myself working in the industry, maybe as a segment producer, where you research and piece segments together for air. Or maybe in marketing working with print, digital and social media promotions.

I’ve learned that no matter where you’re trying to work, you need to understand the history of the industry and you need to research to know what companies are looking for, so you can tailor your resume to land a position or at least find a contact. Creative Industries has helped give me the skills needed to get my foot in the door at companies I like.

DID THIS INTERNSHIP HELP OPEN SOME DOORS FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER? The biggest takeaway from all of this was the doors it opened for my future career. I actually had applied to work in another department and they filled up, but the person there liked me and recommended me for InnerSpace.

I got my internship because I made a connection and they advocated for me.

I also got opportunities to work with different departments, so now I have contacts at Space, The Social, E!, MuchMusic as well as the graphics and marketing teams. I was able to take advantage of shadowing people and I

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learning outcomes:

Creative Industries has helped give me the skills needed to get my foot in the door at companies I like. feel very positive about getting back into the building if I want to. Even if I don’t want to go back to Bell, our executive producer offered to be a reference for me wherever I want to go. The industry is small in Toronto and they know people at most companies.

LIST THREE PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL TAKEAWAYS OR INSIGHTS THAT YOU’VE GAINED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE: 1. Networking does not have to be super serious all the time; it can be as simple as being nice to someone you work with.

2. A lot of what you learn is by doing and it counts as genuine experience.

3. Content will always be created; it’s just a matter of finding out where and finding employment at those spots.

Complete tape request with media services

File footage in The Vault Create blog posts

Administrative duties

project management

leadership

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

data & analysis

communications

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight /interpret data and inform decision making.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas for stories and segments.

teamwork & collaboration

innovation & enterprise

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

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NICOLE FINELLI

Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Global Partnerships Intern Class of 2017

WHAT ABOUT THIS PROGRAM IS MOST INTERESTING TO YOU?

YOU’RE COMPLETING YOUR INTERNSHIP WITH MAPLE LEAF SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT. HOW IS THAT ENHANCING YOUR EDUCATION?

The program has done an outstanding job of providing lectures from professionals in the industry. This has given me the opportunity to expand my network and build new connections with credible, experienced individuals that can offer guidance in the field.

Through the various business courses offered in this program, I have been able to develop skills in finance, marketing, and different stages in the startup of a company. These are practical skills that will allow me to understand the business side of any company and how it operates to create profit and thrive on its success. Following your dreams and passions in creative work is important, but this program has also provided me with the business knowledge that is key in commercializing my creative processes.

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Being a part of the Global Partnership Department at MLSE, I am able to meet a plethora of different professionals. The connections I foster with different people every day have been helpful to my growth as a young professional in the field.

This internship has opened my eyes to creative planning stages, along with the execution of certain aspects of the company that is required to make it so successful in the industry. I am able to be a part of very informative and influential meetings at MLSE. These meetings give me insight and knowledge of business and creative processes that take place with campaigns for our sports teams.

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typical tasks:

Assist in the development of sales materials

Fulfill administrative tasks as assigned

Assist with various graphic content using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator

Apply excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills with clients and colleagues

Provide creative expertise for a variety of design projects

DID YOUR STUDIES PREPARE YOU WELL FOR THIS INTERNSHIP? I have been able to apply what I have learned over the course of three years in the Creative Industries program to my internship at MLSE. Students are required to complete group projects and individual presentations throughout the program. I believe these assignments have prepared me to work successfully in a group setting, managing my time and tasks accordingly along with being able to articulate my ideas and knowledge in a business setting.

As an intern I am required to complete a project for MLSE to showcase my knowledge of our partners and my capability to come up with a feasible and successful marketing plan.

Through learning about different aspects of marketing in the Creative Industries program, along with understanding my creative process and perfecting my presentation skills, I feel very prepared to create and showcase an effective project of my own.

Following your dreams and passions in creative work is important, but this program has also provided me with the business knowledge that is key in commercializing my creative processes.

learning outcomes:

innovation & enterprise

project management

Adapt to changing demands, integrate new approaches and ideas.

Develop and execute project and event plans, coordinate with others, manage risks associated with a project.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

digital literacy & technical aptitude

Synthesize information from multiple sources; make decisions and align actions to achieve desired goals.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

teamwork & collaboration

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

leadership

data & analysis

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES IN CREATIVE INDUSTRIES, SO FAR?

The production team was split up in a variety of different committees and I was part of the PR & Marketing Committee. We took care of all real life tasks that a PR & Marketing firm would be given in order to create a successful fashion show. I was able to learn how to properly draft press releases and sponsorship forms and was able to communicate with hundreds of industry professionals.

Last year I took the Fashion Promotion course.

I was one of 45 Creative Industries, Fashion Design, and Fashion Communications students who were carefully selected to produce Mass Exodus 2016, Canada’s largest student-run fashion show.

The internship was another memorable experience, meeting colleagues and industry professionals, along with gaining insight and knowledge about aspects of how business and the creative industries come into play at MLSE.

I have been able to utilize my years of experience with Adobe systems such as Photoshop and Illustrator in creative content such as ticket packages and visuals for games and events.

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Support sales team through research (industry best practices, sourcing prospective marketing partners, sharing client news, etc.)

Attend and support events at Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors home games

Apply nuanced understanding to navigate and use digital tools.

Act as an ambassador for the organization and/ or Ryerson.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight /interpret data and inform decision making.

community engagement

communications

Create and foster collaborative internal and external partnerships.

Develop and/or execute marketing and promotional plans

Contribute to and strengthen communities through proactive and effective outreach.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas for client campaigns

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EMMA LAUERMEIER

Bell Media: The Social Production Assistant Class of 2018

WHAT’S IT LIKE WORKING ON A TELEVISION SHOW?

not in the television module, I felt comfortable choosing this internship because things I learned in communications are applicable to the television industry. It was complementary to what I was doing.

It’s exciting! As a Production Assistant, I got to experience a lot of different aspects of the television industry. I was basically helping everywhere I could, so it changed every day. I would help producers with segments, whether that was researching, or finding props and placing them. I worked with the audience so bringing them in and organizing them, because it’s a live show. I was also in the morning meetings where people would pitch segments for the beginning of the show and I actually had two of my pitches go to air!

It’s really cool seeing something you came up with talked about on national TV. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO INTERN AT THE SOCIAL? I applied to quite a few internships that were in different areas, because my communications module is fairly broad. So even though I’m

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I’ve watched the show for quite a few years and I like it. And because it falls under Bell Media, I felt I’d get more out of my internship than just working at a small show. I get to experience the corporate culture at one of the top institutions in Canadian media and that opens a lot of opportunities to network and connect with people. And I make a small impact on a part of the company.

HOW HAS WHAT YOU’VE LEARNED IN CREATIVE INDUSTRIES HELPED YOU IN YOUR ROLE? In Creative Industries, we’re balancing two different modules throughout our time at university, so we’re not learning the same thing all day and need to be able to multitask. This

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typical tasks:

Assist with live broadcasts and all areas of production Research segment pieces

Assist with audience load-in

helped me a lot with my internship because I was able to be given multiple projects at different times and understand what I needed to do quickly.

At the job, there was never just one expected thing each day. I was using all parts of my brain, just like at school. In television there’s the creative side, the production work, the marketing, and more, and being in a program that embraces all those sides of creativity has really helped my ability to execute multiple different projects in a professional setting. It’s important because professionally you need to be able to do this.

SO CREATIVE INDUSTRIES WAS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOU? Yes! I was that kid in high school who had so many interests that I was nervous to go into a program focused on one thing. In Creative Industries I’m getting a larger grasp on multiple areas that I can then customize to my interests.

It’s like a choose your own adventure program, and I love having so much control over my learning and choosing what paths I want to go down. I’ve taken so many different courses, which has helped me narrow down what I’m actually passionate about and good at, which is communications and social media. I found this out through my classes. I always thought social media was cool, but never realized I could actually be paid to do it. My professors have showed me jobs I could one day step into.

Many of our teachers also have other jobs, giving them connections outside academics.

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learning outcomes:

I get to experience the corporate culture at one of the top institutions in Canadian media and that opens a lot of opportunities to network and connect with people.

I’ve made great connections through my professors who will email me jobs that their friends are looking to hire for. That’s exciting because if you work hard in the class, you not only do well in school, but you get a solid connection for your future.

Develop and pitch fresh segment ideas Attend field shoots Manage props

Communicate with audience, guests and producers

project management

innovation & enterprise

Develop and execute project plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Prioritize and manage multiple tasks to achieve goals on time and on budget.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Synthesize information and make decisions to achieve desired goals.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

data & analysis

teamwork & collaboration

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Understand department goals & vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Interact positively and work effectively with others.

Use data findings to gain insight and inform decision-making.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

leadership

communications

Identify and understand the dynamics of a group; understand the importance of exhibiting a positive outlook and attitude.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas for stories and segments.

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

LIST THREE PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL TAKEAWAYS THAT YOU’VE GAINED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE: 1. Never think you are too good to do any job.

2. Always ask for help if you need it.

3. Don’t do things for praise, do them because you want to.

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DAPHNE CHAN

Bruce Mau Design Business Development Intern Class of 2018

CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT BRUCE MAU DESIGN AND WHAT YOU DO THERE?

DOES WHAT YOU LEARN IN CREATIVE INDUSTRIES TRANSLATE TO YOUR WORK AT A DESIGN FIRM?

Bruce Mau Design is one of the best design firms in the country. They’ve worked with the AGO, Indigo, Nuit Blanche, Harvard, and UPenn, among others. My official title is Business Development Intern, so a lot of my work is either pursuing potential projects or doing preliminary work before the designers go in and do their jobs.

When it comes to design firms and agencies, people immediately think of the visual stuff, but a lot actually goes into preparing to create these things. So I do a lot of research, prepare presentation decks and help create concepts. It’s cool because a lot of our business is international. In my first four days of interning, I worked on projects in Berlin, New York, Shanghai and Miami.

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When it comes to design, a lot of it is someone coming to you with a problem you need to solve. And it’s multiple clients at a time from different industries — consulting, government, cosmetics, consumer goods. You have to be really good at switching headspaces and focusing on one thing at a time. My time at Ryerson, both in the program and outside of it, has been so interdisciplinary, so I’ve been doing this for the last three years.

HOW HAS IT BEEN INTERDISCIPLINARY? Well, Creative Industries teaches you how to be flexible, which is a good thing. And Ryerson is very open to student-led initiatives and really cares about you developing skills outside your classes.

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typical tasks:

Conduct research into clients, competitors, and industry context

Send press releases to media outlets

Proofread written material

Pitch concepts to external collaborators

Consolidate material into Keynote presentations

In my three years here I’ve had a ton of different work and volunteer experiences.

Most recently I helped found Kaleidoscope — a publication showcasing the creative work of students in FCAD. In starting Kaleidoscope I applied a lot of what I’m learning in my different classes. My business classes helped me with finance and project management, while my GCM ones gave me the necessary knowledge about printing best practices. I was also one of the lead curators, so I got to work with artists and figure out how to balance their creative needs with our mandate as a publication.

Working on Kaleidoscope also gave me a better knowledge of the FCAD ecosystem and how the different schools come together, which is a nice complement to Creative Industries because our program borrows a lot from these other schools.

SO CREATIVE INDUSTRIES HAS BEEN A GOOD EXPERIENCE, BUT IT WASN’T ALWAYS YOUR FIRST CHOICE RIGHT? My first choice was graphic design at another university, because I love to make things, but I wasn’t sure if I wanted to devote the rest of my time to only doing that. In Creative Industries, you get a chance to make stuff, but also examine the dynamics behind it and look at the factors that come into play when you’re trying to monetize creativity, turn it into a lucrative business, and make a living out of it.

It’s taught me the valuable, and I think underappreciated skill of being open to ambiguity and being able to process many different sources of information. In order to

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In order to be a good creative thinker and worker, you need to draw from as broad a range of subjects as you possibly can, and that’s what Creative Industries gives you. be a good creative thinker and worker, you need to draw from as broad a range of subjects as you possibly can, and that’s what Creative Industries gives you.

Create timelines for inclusion in proposals for new projects

learning outcomes:

Assemble workshop materials, Master Service Agreements, and scope documents for client meetings

digital literacy & technical aptitude

project management

Understand and effectively use digital tools, technological innovations and relevant software.

Develop and execute project and event plans, coordinate with others, and manage risks associated with a project.

leadership

teamwork & collaboration

Act as an ambassador for the organization.

Understand department goals and vision and how to contribute to team objectives.

Recognize and voluntarily take charge of a situation when an opportunity arises.

Employ strategies to balance independent work with team engagement.

innovation & enterprise

data & analysis

Adapt to changing demands; integrate new approaches and ideas.

Succinctly communicate complex information using a range of methods.

Think creatively, take initiative and demonstrate resourcefulness.

Use a range of methods and tools to collect and analyze data.

Use problem-solving skills to identify and seek alternative ways to achieve goals or improve processes.

Use data findings and critical thinking to gain insight /interpret data and inform decision making.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE THREE PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL INSIGHTS THAT YOU’VE GAINED FROM THIS EXPERIENCE?

communications

I’ve learned that I am not timid about asking questions when I want to understand something better, that I am comfortable working in deadline-driven environments, and that I enjoy facilitating and supporting design work as much as I enjoy doing the work myself.

Share information across a range of communication technologies.

Practice effective, professional written, visual, and verbal communications.

Research, develop and pitch relevant ideas for business proposals.

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created by school of creative industries work placement coordinator Alexandra D’Arcy adarcy@ryerson.ca

interviews by Cormac McGee

photographs by Brody White

layout by

Daphne Chan

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