Inside the industry: How internships bridge classroom and careers

The immersive program places talented Conservatorium students in internships with preeminent arts organisations. Our industry partners have the opportunity to mentor the next wave of talent in the sector, while students have the chance to prepare for success in a dynamic and competitive field.

For Bachelor of Music student Paris Whiteley, interning with Universal Music Group’s international marketing team was an eye-opening experience. Paris was immersed in the behind-the-scenes world of music marketing, working on projects such as event planning, social media promotions, and data analysis.

“I had an incredible time with the company and learned so much,” Paris shares.

"I was interning for the incredible international marketing team, who helped me learn and see multiple aspects of what goes into music marketing."

A highlight of her internship was helping organise a listening party for Zayn Malik’s album release. This event aimed to connect fans with the artist’s work in a meaningful way, providing Paris with valuable insights into engaging audiences through creative experiences.

Paris’ internship experience offered valuable insights into how the industry works in practice. 

“I also got to see a new type of opportunity working in the industry that I would not have thought to consider without completing the internship.”

Paris credits her supportive supervisors for making her internship seamless and encourages other students to seize similar opportunities.

“I would recommend going for an internship, even if it is not a place you think you’ll end up in your career," she says.

Paris encourages students considering the Professional Practice Internship program to approach the opportunity with confidence and enthusiasm.

“Be confident in your role and ask as many questions as you can, as you’re there to learn”. 

For Finn Berryman, an internship at Golden Retriever Studio offered a deep dive into the technical world of professional audio recording.

"Golden Retriever Studios is a recording studio complex with many studios linked to a single large live room and two supporting booths," explains Finn.

Working as an assistant engineer, Finn learned to set up microphones, patch effects, and maintain recording spaces during live tracking sessions.

Finn found the studio environment creatively enriching, providing insights and connections unavailable in a traditional academic setting.

"It has provided knowledge and insight into not only the analogue recording equipment and process often most sought after by studios but also validated my involvement in the local music community of Sydney through meeting musicians that I may not have encountered otherwise."

Finn learnt that he particularly enjoyed working with bands, and watching the collaborative creative process unfold.

"I enjoyed this phase of recording the most, as band members would bounce ideas, and explore the technology available at the studio." 

For students contemplating a similar placement, Finn echoes Paris' advice about seizing the opportunity and being inquisitive.

"Be genuine and honest about what experience and knowledge you have, as professionals are often willing to train you and make sure you understand what is going on. In a studio space, that may mean making notes of questions so you can bring them up later."

Professional Practice Internships offer students an unique opportunity to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the music industry. The experience provides valuable practical experience while connecting students to industry professionals and networks. These transformative opportunities help prepare students for success after graduation and turn their passion into a lifelong profession.

Learn more about our Professional Practice Internships. Get in touch.