Music journalism student describes “dream” placement at community radio station

A music journalism student has described a work placement at a local community radio station as a “dream” opportunity.

Corin Doolan was amongst 500 University of Chester students have taken on roles from presenting on community radio to flying police drones as they have gained invaluable work experience and supported a range of organisations

Work Based Learning (WBL) placements have been successfully completed by students in over 330 organisations including businesses, charities, schools and tourist attractions, across Chester, the North West, North Wales, and the wider UK.

480 students were welcomed by placement providers from a wide range of sectors including: Storyhouse; Merseyside Police; Chester Zoo; Waterco – a national environmental consultancy; Wind2; the RSPCA; Royal Liverpool Golf Club; The National Trust and Encirc.

Wrexham-based radio station, Calon FM, was also amongst the organisations to offer a placement to students.

During her time at the placement Corin had the chance to find out more about how live radio works behind the scenes – as well as presenting on air.

Corin made the most of a dream placement with Calon FM and she encourages other students to aim high when they apply for their placements:

“Reach for the stars,” said Corin.

“Even if you think an organisation or industry you would love to work in is out of reach, send that email, or reach out to them to ask – you will have a much better experience if you do something you are interested in and passionate about.”

She added: “Being able to produce and talk live on air has been an amazing experience and really helped me refine my skills in adaptability and working well under pressure.

“This placement has given me such a valuable insight and helped me realise that there are a wide range of jobs in radio that I would be highly interested in pursuing after my degree.”

The flagship Enhancing Your Employability through WBL module has been running successfully in various forms for more than 25 years at the University.

At its core is the five-week placement that is undertaken during the second year of undergraduate study.

Kirstie Simpson, Associate Professor and Dean of Chester Business School, said: “Our thanks to the many employers who have given such career-enhancing opportunities to our students.

“Work Based Learning is a unique experience for students to develop their employability skills within the workplace, whilst giving employers an opportunity to influence the workforce of the future and gain help, support and input.

“As students build their portfolio and shape their plans, they can contribute to a specific or ongoing project, share their subject knowledge, offer fresh ideas and bring a new perspective.”

Information for employers who would like to find out more about WBL placements and how to offer a student an opportunity for 2024, is available at: www.chester.ac.uk/wbl.

Alternatively, email the WBL team, who welcome placement offers from organisations from now onwards for the following May, at: [email protected].