I’m Molly, a third year graphic design student at the University of Leeds. At the start of my third year I embarked on a Year in Industry, which involved finding a place of work where I could gain some practical experience for the duration of the year.
I spent 4 months at a small graphic design agency in Leeds, and in February I discovered Savvy Marketing on a website called Made in Leeds.
I sent my cv and some examples of my work and was thrilled when Catherine and Jo got in touch to ask me to come in for an interview. I started work on 1 March and have spent the past 4 months at Savvy. I was offered a really thorough induction and the opportunity to shadow members of staff in all departments, which was a fantastic way to familiarise myself with the way the agency works.
After a few weeks, I was offered the role of account executive on the Asahi account. It was brilliant to be given this responsibility as it’s an area I wouldn’t have had the chance to explore during my degree. It opened my mind to other jobs and possibilities in the design and marketing industry and, if anything, has made me lean towards account management rather than having the sole focus on graphic design in terms of my future career.
I can quite honestly say I have learnt more working at Savvy than I did in 2 years at University. Having experienced roles within the insight, accounts and design team, I have had a broad introduction and the chance to get involved in projects in different ways.
Working in a fast-paced environment means you have to pick things up quickly, which I think is the best way to learn. Everyone at Savvy was so welcoming (and patient), so I very quickly felt like part of the team.
To anyone considering a placement year or year in industry, I can’t recommend Savvy enough – not only for the broad and exciting work they produce and the varied job roles they offer, but for the creative opportunities and the fantastic, supportive team. I hope to be back soon!