Elliott Wallace’s Media placement in Australia

“I am a radio presenter, producer, receptionist and tech support at a radio station in Sydney” – Elliott Wallace, Durham University.

Elliott is studying Geography at Durham University and joined us for a Media placement in Australia with a radio station, for 6 months in Sydney (September 2023 to March 2024). 

What’s your background back home?

Studying Geography at BSc Durham University, 20 years old (at time of writing) with bilateral profound hearing loss, accessing sound through Cochlear Implants.

Why did you choose to do a media placement in Australia as part of your degree?

As a test of independence, a break from stressful university deadlines and an opportunity to be “selfish” and undertake a yearlong experience for myself only. Also to open my eyes as to the career path I wish for, before completing university – settling the debate of ‘head vs heart’.

Why did you choose Australia?

It is an English-speaking country, with a fairly western culture yet different in aspects that appealed to me – particularly the enhanced work/life balance when compared to the UK.

What are you doing for your placement?

I am a radio presenter, producer, receptionist and tech support at a radio station in Sydney. I present the “Quantum of Wallace” show, the flagship “Album of the Week” show and numerous Drive time shows. I produce a neurological divergence awareness show called “Breaking Waves”.

What skills or knowledge have you gained during your media placement in Australia?

Enhanced organisational skills: liaising with other presenters and producers to create seamless productions, communication with management about issues that arise and preparing for tasks that are time sensitive but also left to my own discretion.

Did you find it difficult adapting to a new working environment?

Perhaps in the very early stages of my placement, but these worries were forgotten within a few days, adjusting to a new work environment anywhere always prompts difficulties – however these are mostly in one’s mind and artificial.

Have you received much support and advice from your work colleagues in Australia?

Immense support has been provided, elder members of the team have accustomed to a “work mum” “work grandad” role, caring not only for myself but other younger members too.

How has your placement helped you develop as a person?

Very much so, it has highlighted my skill set which has carried over into the creation of a tighter, more informative CV, cover letters, and applications. But also it has helped me to develop a stronger idea of professionalism and what is / isn’t key information when producing handovers or summary reports.

Why did you choose Placement Year International?

The offering of support available throughout my placement was key but also the promise that deliverance was their top priority.

Since joining Placement Year International, what have we done well?

The emails to check in on me have been fantastic and always appreciated! But also the pre-placement materials and flow charts were very insightful too. I have no regrets on paying Placement Year International as the service and resulting placement has been phenomenal (but also not overbearing).

Would you recommend us to other students looking for a placement and why?

Yes. I already have. I would recommend Placement Year International to any student looking at an overseas placement.

Find out more about our Business and Media placements in Australia

More info: Click here to read more about Business placements in Australia, or click here to send us a question or email us at: info@placement-year.org for more information.