Taster day with Inez Szczepanska

Solent University recently hosted a taster day for college students to participate and have a quick glimpse of what it is like to be part of the industry. Today, I was fortunate to have a conversation with Inez Szczepanska, who was taking the role of producer. Leading a team to interview the youngsters who potentially be part of the media industry. I asked Inez, “what was it like to be a producer?” She responded, “it was pretty fun!” However, she had never really taken on the role of a producer and editor at the same time before. She commented that she hadn’t appreciated how fast paced the job would be. Nevertheless, she believes it was a delightful new experience.

“I put myself out of my comfort zone because I took the position the day before the event.” - Inez Szczepanska

Inez emphasised, “the best part was being a producer.” She had never had an experience like this before, and she enjoyed it when people came to her and asked her what they needed to do. For her, the role is very new and included a lot of unexpected things to do. Although, as she indicates, “I put myself out of my comfort zone because I took the position the day before the event.” this is a courageous move from Inez. Not many people would have the bravery to take such a responsibility. I’m sure if she continues to keep this momentum going, she will be successful wherever she goes.

Inez recommends everyone should have go at this role. Why? Her response was, “there’s not much pressure because you’re not getting paid for it.” Because it’s an entry-level work experience role, your client should expect you to make mistakes. However, it’s an excellent learning experience. It also allows you to experiment and see what you like and dislike. Inez noted that she can “see the dynamics within the crew, even if you take on a producer’s role.” But she concludes, “by the end of the day, you might want to be a photographer or something. Nevertheless, you should use the opportunities you have at the university to try new things.”

“Suppose it scares you, the more reason to do it!” - Inez Szczepanska

Since she wants to encourage students to try new things, I asked her how she would motivate other students to do so? She suggests, “the first step of stepping out of your comfort zone is to take the first step!” She also said her “new comfort zone is experiencing new things and gaining as much experience as possible” because she believes this will open more paths and create more opportunities. This experience has given her a new motto “suppose it scares you, the more reason to do it!” For example, she was afraid to do the producer role, but she appreciates it now.

She also said participating in this event as a production team reminded her of a younger self three years ago. However, her experience was slightly different because it was an induction for international students. She was one of the ambassadors. On that day, she found it “quite nerve-racking” because she is not used to speaking to so many people at once. However, that experience allowed her to be braver and to break a barrier.

“Everyone’s a bit anxious and nervous." - Inez Szczepanska

That day was very similar to this year’s taster day because “everyone’s a bit anxious and nervous. They don’t feel comfortable yet and do not know the industry that well, but they are very enthusiastic about being here!” As a result, she feels nostalgic working for the media activity day. Moreover, she is glad that she has grown so much in 3 years.

Why do you think those people who participate in the taster day or want to start their career in media should take this course? Her reply was, “I quite enjoy a lot of variety.” That’s why she took on this course. Moreover, it is something that she wants to learn more about the industry. That’s why she is taking on the producer role for the DVMISSION. She said, “it would be cool if I could get paid for doing what you love.” In addition, she feels confident now to take on a role as a photographer, videographer, and producer.

“Learn to love more than just one thing.” - Inez Szczepanska

Moreover, this leads to the next question, what’s her plan after university? She is hoping that she will find a job within the industry. Therefore, she was appreciative of the work experience module. She believes it will increase the probability of getting a job whilst competing with other candidates. In addition, Inez even feels that the media course itself will make her resume stand out because of her time at Solent University. She has cultivated many varieties of skills. She doesn’t have a specific job she wants to go for because her time at the university has guided her to “learn to love more than just one thing.”

We wondered where Inez’s next destination might be after university? She points out she wants to move away from Southampton. Somewhere close but not too far. Like Bournemouth, which can be slightly quieter than Southampton. In addition, this is due to how the media culture is growing around Solent metropolitan area. Also, it’s still a commutable distance to Southampton if she ever wanted to go home and see her family.

Finally, Solent University is sure whatever happens. Inez won’t be disappointed because you must take risks to be brave, and sometimes you can be unexpected. However, after this interview, I feel like sometimes the surprising exceeds the expectation. Therefore, if you’re scared to step into the darkness, remember that you must close your eyes and face the darkness before you reach your dream.

Photography by Belén Elena Ulargui Escalona and Aitana Vallejo Rodriguez

Cinematography by Marc Palmerino

Video Produced and Edited by Inez Szczepanska

Music by Mitch Knott

Article Written, Edited, and Published by Krisana Polyotha

BA (Hons) Media Production

Solent Media