Internship Opportunities for Students

I dove headfirst into the Cultural Institute internship during the Children's Literature Festival in 2023 and haven't looked back! It was an absolute blast, and I realised I'd found my calling. The work was fulfilling, engaging, inspiring, and (mostly) easy on the feet.

Under the guidance of the Cultural Institute team, I discovered a world of opportunities I never knew existed. I've networked with industry professionals, become a fixture in the local writing scene, and even passionately engaged with and supported Swansea's bookstores. These experiences have been invaluable, helping me develop my skills and build bridges in a notoriously tough industry.

My love for the Cultural Institute inspired me to take the Dylan Thomas Prize module in my English Literature Degree, which opened doors to even more exciting opportunities. From interviewing authors on the Bookends Podcast to judging children's literary competitions, it's been an incredible journey. I've gained invaluable practical experience in event management, podcasting, and interviewing that's worth every minute.

If you're passionate about books and want to do more than just passively read, then this internship is a must. You'll gain invaluable experience and networking opportunities that will make your CV shine.

As a new student to Swansea, I was nervous and uncertain as to how I'd meet new, like-minded people and friends - the Cultural Institute truly was the place for that. It's helped me in building my confidence, increasing my social skills and most of all, meet excellent, inspiring and aspiring writers alike.

It’s been around 3 years since I had the opportunity to work with the Cultural Institute for the fifteenth anniversary of the Swansea University Dylan Thomas Prize, and my memory remains fresh as ever. Well, I think that can easily indicate what a phenomenal experience it was — not just to collaborate with an extraordinary and supportive team, but also receiving a first-hand exposure to meeting and interviewing some of the past recipients of the award including Rachel Trezise and Lucy Caldwell, and even co-judging a children’s writing competition at one point. For me, that internship was an eye-opener in both the creative and professional front, opening my networks with like-minded individuals who dedicatedly value the significance of Humanities, many of whom I'm still in good touch with. I thus strongly recommend students to partake in internship opportunities at the Cultural Institute. It helps you expand your worldview, gain incredible professional experience, and engage with a team of brilliant thinkers.

It was really nerve-wracking at first, but in the end, I was able to talk to my favourite shortlisted author and had a lovely conversation with the winner and get his book signed! Lots of guests were curious about the module and our contributions to the evening, and it was a great way to end the year. Catching up with the other interns at the end of the evening and reflecting on the course and our overall thoughts was honestly the best part.

The internship offered on the Dylan Thomas Prize Module was undoubtedly the best opportunity I received at any point in my university career! The internship programme offers you a chance to gain experience in events management, podcasting with shortlisted authors and is an excellent way to end your final year with a fabulous event. I would recommend this opportunity to anyone with an interest in gaining practical experience in the publishing industry as the internship will look great on your future CV!

The internship opportunities provided by Swansea University were the first time I experienced the writing industry. Under a supportive wing, I was able to network and communicate with industry professionals and develop my knowledge and confidence within the creative space. Truly invaluable and unmissable to anyone aspiring to work in the literary field.