I thought the placement was the perfect way to fit some impressive and relevant work experience in with my postgraduate study, as well as make some money whilst I studied.
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My main responsibilities as an impact analyst revolved around independent research. I was required to dig deep into the activities of my department in order to get a good picture of the wider impact that their work has had. I was required to co-ordinate this evidence and communicate what was needed to the right people as well as collate the evidence into an easy to understand and efficient documentation system.
My main activities involved research and communications with relevant people. I also engaged in a huge amount of interviews with the relevant academics in order to get a good idea of where the starting points in my research should be.
I was lucky enough to carry out a placement within my own department of study, so I was able to get involved in a topic that I was already deeply interested in. Being able to get involved in my department on a level deeper than just my own education was really enjoyable.
Getting started was the hardest part. Having to understand what could be considered impact and where to start looking for it took some time.
Working with the Centre for Media Freedom, a sub department of the department, has definitely confirmed my interest in working with international NGOs at an advocacy level.
Interviews are without a doubt the best way to get started. Making sure you fully understand what is expected of you and establishing a good line of communication with your lead academic will help you throughout the process.
Form completed: 03 Jul 2018