Alice Humphreys

Journalism Student at Harlow College to Production Coordinator at the BBC

I studied for a National Diploma in Journalism at Harlow College 8 years ago, in 2008/9. I then went to the University of Brighton to study Broadcast Media, graduating with an Honours Degree. I'm currently a Production Coordinator for the BBC, although my first job after graduating was as a runner at ITV. After working there for two years I got a full time position with the BBC, based in London at White City.

What’s a typical day in the world of a Production Coordinator for the BBC?

We make all the promos for the BBC, so I go on shoots all the time for Eastenders, Strictly Come Dancing, Poldark – all different TV shows! A typical day for me would be making sure all the crew are booked and on time; creating call sheets, undertaking risk assessments, and, crucially, making sure the correct content goes into the trailer so that it is broadcast ready.

So, do you get to meet all the stars?

Oh yes, I’ve met a fair few celebrities. My favourite, by far, is Keith Lemon. He was great!

How did your course at Harlow College help you to get where you are?

The ND Journalism course at Harlow College definitely helped get me to where I am today. Without the detailed understanding of marketing and my eye for a good camera angle with the photography skills I learned, I definitely wouldn’t have been as equipped as I was to get into the TV industry.

What is your ultimate ambition?

My ultimate ambition is to be a TV Presenter, without a doubt. I want to be in front of the camera. I take all the advice and tips I can. We work with a lot of celebrities who come in to do a voice over for promos, I would love to do that too.

Do you have a message for anybody thinking of joining Harlow College?

Don’t ever give up, anything is possible. I’m now a production coordinator for the BBC, so never think to yourself that you can't do something, because you always can.

I remember when I received my “Most likely to be…” certificate at school from my teacher, it said ‘Journalist’. That was my inspiration and now look where I am. Don’t give up on the dream.