Squad Spotlight
Emma Conaghan

Graduating from the University of Bristol with a History degree was a remarkable achievement for me – a culmination of years of hard work, learning and personal growth. However, the real adventure began after I walked across the stage to receive my diploma. Starting a new job in Edinburgh, after having graduated from Bristol is one thrilling chapter that brings both opportunities and challenges.

When the opportunity for a strategic planning internship at Guy & Co in Edinburgh came up, I knew it was something I had to pursue. Edinburgh is a city rich in history and culture, and the prospect of working there was exciting.

The shift from being a student to starting an internship felt significant. University life operates at a different pace to the professional world. At my internship with Guy & Co, I am applying what I have learned at university in a practical way- working with real teams, clients and deadlines that impact the business. Initially, I felt nervous about this transition. It is one thing to understand concepts in theory but applying them to real world context is a whole other thing. However, the welcoming environment at Guy & Co immediately put me at ease. Everyone was always willing to answer my questions and took time out of their busy working days to give me inductions on their role at the company and what their job entails. This introduced me to the essential skills I needed to be successful working in strategic planning at an independent marketing agency.

 I instantly felt a part of the company. From my first day, I noticed something different about the office: a sense of camaraderie that extended beyond polite professionalism. Everyone knew each other- not just as colleagues, but as friends. One of the best parts about working in an atmosphere like this is the ease at which work gets done. Collaboration flows naturally, almost like an extension of casual conversations. There is a genuine willingness to support each other. No idea is too wild to throw out and no question is a silly question. I believe this is critical in a marketing agency as creativity and openness is important.  The fact the office is not set up like a conventional corporate office makes it feel like a very inviting space, making it a comfortable and close-knit environment. From having dogs around to Thursdays from 5pm spent at the bar, there is always a safe space to discuss work-related issues as well as having genuine, meaningful conversations.

The internship has challenged me to think critically, creatively and explore a new media-related career. My passion for journalism, research and innovation are skills that have been compatible with my role as a strategic planner. Additionally, moving to a new city has opened opportunities for personal growth, from making new friends to becoming more comfortable with change.

Ultimately, this experience is proving to be more than just an internship, it’s an opportunity to grow both professionally and personally, as I step outside of what I have known and embrace the new.