Meet Lucy, who is about to finish her year-long placement with us as Venue Services Coordinator
At the core of everything we do is our incredible team—a group of passionate, talented individuals who each bring something unique to the table. From the warm smiles of our front-of-house staff who create a welcoming atmosphere the moment you walk through the door, to the creativity and skill of our culinary team crafting some unforgettable dishes, every person plays a vital role in making our workplace truly special.
Each team member has a story worth sharing, and together, they create an environment that’s not only enjoyable to work in but also inspiring to be part of.
Over the past year, we’ve welcomed some fantastic new faces to the team. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Lucy, our Venue Services Coordinator, who joined us last August as our most recent year-long placement student. Lucy joined us from Manchester Metropolitan University, where she is studying Events Management and will be leaving us at the end of July to go and finish her final year. We sat down with her and asked some questions about finding a placement, her favourite moments of the year and a bit about herself…
What has been the highlight of your placement year at the BDC?
Professionally, it would be the month of November in general, we have a variety of exhibitions, and these were some of the first larger exhibitions I got to work on, so it was challenging but exciting. Socially, it would be the BDC Quiz Night, which was great fun, and it was nice to socialise with others in the building.
What's the best advice you've received?
To be a sponge and absorb as much knowledge as possible from people who have experience in the industry but also to have confidence in yourself and your abilities.
And now about how you found your placement…
Did you find it daunting moving to a new city and a new job not knowing anyone?
It was daunting as I only knew one person. I was lucky as we found girls to live with who are lovely and are we can socialise with which has been key. The BDC was really welcoming and I have made some strong friendships that I will keep when I return to uni.
How did you find adjusting to work life from University Life?
It was an adjustment at first, and it takes time to learn the ropes and settle into a new job, especially in a new city. As I worked a full-time job before university, I felt comfortable in an office environment, which helped. It takes a bit of time to adjust your body clock, but it becomes your normal routine eventually.
Can you give me some top tips about doing a placement year...
I think doing a placement year has massively grown my knowledge of the industry and has helped me put into practice what I have learnt throughout the first two years of my degree. I will be able to look at the topics in my final year with more knowledge and experience, as well as enter the industry with more confidence. My advice would be to only apply to placements which you think are right for you, you are passionate about and will help you develop. Be yourself and show you are keen!
Finally, a bit about you…
How would you spend your ideal weekend?
At the moment it’s socialising with friends and family and exploring London – trying as many new things as possible before I leave! I have been enjoying going to markets, shows and events, trying new food places and sightseeing.
Any hobbies we should know about?
I love dancing and workout classes and I used to take part in dance and theatre shows. I haven’t done as many classes as I would have liked since being in London but I have enjoyed going to the weekly Yoga the BDC offers.
What's your favourite place to eat in Islington?
I really enjoyed the opening event at Sticks’n’Sushi we got to attend as the food was great. There is also a Wahaca which I am pleased about as I love Mexican food.
What's your most memorable trip?
My most memorable trip was when I went to Florida with my mom, dad and brother in 2018 for two weeks. We did all the Disney and Universal parks and as a big Disney and theme park fan, I loved it!”
Over the coming months, we will be introducing more of the team, getting to know some new and also longstanding faces.
You can find out more or revisit some of our previous interviews and insight pieces using #peopleoftheBDC.
