This academic year, the Arts and Culture team have six brand new interns, and we’re also welcoming back two of last year’s team. We’ve asked them all to introduce – or reintroduce – themselves in a blog post.  

Hi, I am Michi Masumi, a PhD Student currently in year 2 and researching Black British Arts, Culture and AI. I am also a member of the CCCU’s Arts and Culture team as an intern. This will be my 2nd year, and I cannot tell you how much fun I have had working with the Arts and Culture team. I have loved all the different events that the team supports, you are never bored, every event has its vibes and time flies.  

So…you may be asking what is life like as an Arts and Culture Intern. Well, first there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes, from social media content creation to event management. I had the opportunity to work both onsite and across the local community of Canterbury, working in some stunning environments full of history and character. Listen to outstanding musicians live, be part of social issue live discussions, attend exhibitions and watch breathtaking theatre and dance performances from our very own students and UK-wide visiting creatives.  

Being an Arts and Culture Intern gives you a genuine perspective of live performances, you see first-hand the commitment and dedication of all involved from the actors, dancers, singers, creative musicians, technical staff, academic staff, security, venue hosts, catering, the Arts and Culture team and the local community, who are fantastic with their continual support of local arts.  

I also got access to training which supported some of my weaker skills, such as how to use Capcut, along with booking systems IT training and confidence with people skills, I love working as part of a diverse, warm and welcoming team in a great environment. Meeting people that I may not normally meet. Bonus I work around my studies and my lifestyle as a single mum, and this is another example of work experience that I can add to my CV as a mum returning to work. 

I am excited about the events we have scheduled for you all in 2024-2025, for more information about what’s on and how you can join in, visit the Arts and Culture Homepage.