Student gets taste for events after challenging few years

A GCU student has finally been able to put the pandemic behind her and combine theory with practical work experience.

Emma Whitehead, who will this month start her final year on the BA (Hons) International Tourism and Events Management programme, completed an internship in April with TC Events Consultancy.

After just six months of University, coronavirus took a hold of the world, Emma has been making the most of life returning to normal in more recent times.

Back in 2020, coronavirus took a hold of Emma’s university experience just six months into her studies; however, she’s now been making the most of life returning to normal.

How did the opportunity with TC Events Consultancy all come about?

“I was doing the module Work Placement Experience during third year, so straight away I was contacting tourism and events companies. It was quite difficult because a lot of people are now trying to get work experience, especially after covid. I posted on LinkedIn and social media, and a family friend, Tracey, contacted me and offered the chance to complete an internship with her.”

What appealed to you about getting involved with that specific company?

“I’ve not had experience due to covid and I knew that TC events would provide so many varied opportunities. They cover everything from award ceremonies to staff celebrations. The fact she could offer me such a wide range of experiences greatly appealed to me and it was an experience that I really enjoyed.

“I’d always thought of events as weddings and concerts; I hadn’t really considered that you could do a bit of everything. I get fed up of doing the same sort of thing and really like getting experience in different sectors, so this was ideal for me.”

So, what were you involved in during your internship?

“I was in the office at the start doing quite a lot of administration work. We then had an event with the Open University in July and also had three other pharmaceutical staff events later on in the month and at the start of August.

“I was involved in all aspects of the events: I contacted suppliers, worked on the health and safety side, acted as the point of contact for attendees, and then there was the actual running of the event on the day.

“It was interesting to see all sides of it. When you’re in classes you don’t get as much of a chance to see the practical side, but now I know how much there actually is to it.”

What was your favourite event that you worked on?

“The staff events with the pharmaceutical company were great because it was a real carnival vibe - we even had jugglers!

“It was for a company that have bases in Motherwell, Alloa and Bathgate, and it was basically a staff ‘thank you’ event. The three events ranged in size; we had between 100 and 500 at each.

“The organisation gave us their budget and myself and Tracey had to brainstorm ideas together; it was quite a lot of pressure but thankfully they loved it!”

How will this experience benefit you in future?

“The pandemic obviously had a massive impact on me because it hit during first year. I’m now going into fourth year and obviously keen to get all these opportunities. It’s great to get out there and get stuck into it all – especially with my dissertation just around the corner.

"GCU as a whole has been hugely supportive in providing me with opportunities. I have volunteered at the likes of Celtic FC and Cancer Research, so there is a really variation available which can only be of benefit.”


By Ross Clark 
Got an SHLS or GSBS story? Email me at Ross.Clark@gcu.ac.uk or message me on Twitter