Callum Peters along with Al Jones both work for the BBC User Experience and Design department, which is something I hadn’t previously thought about as a career after leaving an art degree. Callum explained that they serve over 97% of UK households weekly, which has increased more during the pandemic. The department works upon creating easier user experiences and looks at this from a design perspective, with over 180 people in the team. I didn’t realise this was a role, let alone a whole team which has really opened my eyes to how art can be seen and has roles to play in many areas of the world. 

 

Peters talked through some of the projects he and Al have worked upon, including The Own It App, BBC Bitesize rebranding, and app, and even the Newsround Website. This was interesting because as a child, I used BBC Bitesize and Newsround, so its lovely to meet the people who have helped set up these important resources. It also highlighted how even children’s resources must be considered in the user’s experience, the tackling of huge issues for little minds whilst also being sensitive of the audience is so important. 

 

Finally, Callum and Al also expressed that it doesn’t have to be a ‘one size fits all’ approach to leaving university and finding a career. This was so calming and really stopped me from stressing. I’ve been worried that I haven’t got anything planned indefinitely, but Callum insisted that it’s okay to feel this stressed and to feel like there is a lot of pressure to find something straight away, he felt the same when he left. The difference is, to find something I enjoy, something that I’m passionate about and keep going. Eventually, with perseverance and hard work, I will find something that will eventually grow int my career.