Alice Stansfield

How did university prepare you for your career?

It was the outside-of-university activities in particular that helped prepare me for the world of media. Our course tutors often encouraged us to take advantage of what the University had to offer in terms of connections, so I worked closely with Solent Creatives throughout my course to start my own freelancing company and make contacts in the media industry. The course provided me with the knowledge, whereas the University provided me with the on-set experience.

Favourite Solent memory?

Besides the friendships and all the university socials, going to Glastonbury Festival as a news producer in my first year.

Tell us a little about your career so far

After launching my freelancing production company, Chameleon Films, I decided that I no longer wanted to work alone on promotional client work. I thoroughly enjoyed it, but wanted to learn more from other people. I had worked in other production companies – such as Southpoint Films and Woodcut Media – while still at university. Then in the week of graduation I found out I had a job with Royal Caribbean International. For over a year now I have been sailing the world, working as a broadcast technician.

Tell us about what you are doing now and what it involves

Although most cruises are the same and have a strict schedule, there is no typical working day. My duties as a broadcast technician include filming all the cruise staff events that involve guests, working with the satellites to receive our channels, working on ice shows, live broadcasting entertainers, filming the Morning Show with the cruise director and activities manager on board, and anything else that is needed. I work every single day, but I can visit all the ports of call we come across. So most days I’ll head to the office straight from lying on a beach, exploring a mountain, or swimming with dolphins.

What’s your career highlight?

Everything I’ve seen and done on my travels.

What is film?

Creating, capturing and sharing stories to inspire, entertain and enjoy.

What tips would you give to someone wanting a career in your industry?

Experience! Never give up emailing or speaking to connections, and get your foot in the door. This doesn’t necessarily mean working for free – you are worth more than that!