August 14, 2024, by Arts Placements

Five Reasons to Apply for the Summer Research Placement Programme

By Hannah Cox 

For four weeks over summer I undertook a research placement with the Faculty of Arts, assisting Associate Professor in Art History, Mark Rawlinson. My research focus was the photography scene of Los Angeles across the 1960s and 70s. This involved tracing the activity of photographers, galleries and schools within the period, creating an interpersonal historical record of this crucial time in the art form’s development.  I thoroughly enjoyed my placement and would encourage any student to apply – but, why should you exactly?

1. To gain valuable research experience, in a topic you find interesting.

Being a skilled ‘researcher’ can sound vague. But, this is a result of the transferability and widespread usefulness of research. From academic study, to creative arts, to the heritage sector, law or business, research is an essential skill that can be tailored towards any graduate job of interest. I hadn’t experienced formal research beyond that of university essay preparation. This placement has not only provided me with practical evidence of my research skills to put on my CV but also helped me understand whether it is something I would like to do within my career.

What helped was being able to research a topic I found interesting; once you are shortlisted to take part in the placement, you are given a choice of multiple different projects from which you pick a top 5 to potentially be interviewed for. Being able to voice my preference of project made my placement more interesting and gave me a more personalised experience.

2. You get to work with a university academic.

Each project has at least one supervisor, with whom you will feedback to. The amount you see your supervisor varies from project to project. I met with my supervisor, Mark, every Monday morning to discuss the previous week. Mark gave me direction but wanted me to follow the research I thought was most interesting. This freedom gave me confidence in my own initiative, enriched by our weekly collaboration.

3. You gain independence, whilst experiencing a full-time role.

Over the four weeks I typically worked a 9 to 5, Monday to Friday. Yet, I was independent in making sure I worked all my hours and deciding where to work them. I chose to go into university and work in the library every day; this provided me with structure and an environment away from home. I simultaneously gained a better understanding of what it is like to work full-time whilst having independence within my routine, improving my discipline and self-motivation.

4. Learn new skills.

Aside from improving skills such as time management, organisation and problem solving, I gained new practical skills. I had to use software and databases I was unfamiliar with, such as when I was creating an A0 size poster to present my research. This enhanced my skillset for future jobs, whilst being a fun challenge.

5. Get paid!

Finally, the placement is paid, funded by the Faculty of Arts. Experience alone won’t help out your savings, so this is a great way to earn money over summer.

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