Catching up with MA Screenwriting Alum Rachel Williams

In October 2020, MA Screenwriting student, Rachel Williams shared with the Hub her top tips for fellow postgrads (If you have not yet watched her video, then explore our Student Voices page to find out more!).

Last week, we decided to catch up with Rachel, now a graduate, to discuss her post university life and see if she had any new tips for current LCC postgrad students.

After graduating in 2021, Rachel went on to work in none other than our very own UAL Student Union as Education Officer. Inspired by her role as a LCC Change Maker in her postgrad days, Rachel explained that she took on the position as she wanted to further her work on decolonising the curriculum at LCC. Being one of the few people of colour on her course at the time, Rachel decided that she wanted to work towards making the university a more diverse and inclusive place for all students.

‘I found it challenging being one of the few people of colour on my course, so I wanted to give back and open pathways for future students’ – Rachel Williams

When discussing whether she viewed her current job as a permanent career change, Rachel explained that she tries not to limit herself, as within the arts it’s important to be as open as possible with your options.

‘Never limit your options – you may discover you have a variety of passions”- Rachel Williams

With a BA in Photography, an MA in Screenwriting, and a current employment as SU Education Officer, it’s clear to see that Rachel’s passions continue to diversify and grow. They all inspire, influence, and complement one another, leading to a large variety of transferable skills which will enable a multitude of options in her future.

However, Rachel stated that writing is still the passion she wants to pursue, and she stressed the importance of continuing with this in her spare time. She mentioned that she struggled at first without the structure of the course to guide her, but now she always ensures she balances her job commitments with her writing.

‘Once you graduate you might not get a job in your chosen practice right away, so always make sure you carve out time to do your work’ – Rachel Williams

The ability to multitask is an essential part of working in the creative industry, and Rachel stated that it is important to be aware of this from the get-go. She went on to say that that was one of the most pertinent pieces of advice from her past video – the idea that the work doesn’t start and stop in the classroom.

After reflecting, her final top tips for current LCC postgrads were to:

• Make sure both your written and verbal communication skills are developed
• Make sure you are always open to even the most unexpected and informal of networking opportunities
• Make sure you are always be prepared and proactive.

Rachel looks forward to seeing how her experiences and advice can help current postgrads at LCC.  Likewise, I’m sure that we too can’t wait to see what Rachel does next.