From Social Media Stalker to Dream Job: Alice Taylor's Journey at the NFSA
Let's be honest, we've all done it. Spent countless hours scrolling through LinkedIn and Instagram, dissecting the career paths of people who seem to have *nailed* it. That dream job – the one you can almost taste – feels impossibly out of reach, doesn't it? But what if you could peek behind the curtain and learn how someone actually got there?
This is the story of Alice Taylor, Creative Producer and Program Coordinator at the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA). Alice's journey is a relatable one, filled with strategic choices, a healthy dose of networking, and a genuine passion for film and storytelling. Forget the overnight success stories; this is about the dedication, the pivots, and the hard work that paved the way to a fulfilling career in the Australian screen industry.
The Early Days: Fuelled by Passion
Alice's love affair with film started young. “I was always drawn to stories,” she explains. “Films had this incredible power to transport you, to make you feel something deeply. I wanted to be a part of that magic.” Her initial steps involved volunteering at local film festivals, absorbing everything she could about production, distribution, and curation. This hands-on experience proved invaluable, exposing her to the realities of the industry and helping her refine her interests.
The University Years: Building a Foundation
University provided Alice with a more formal education in film studies, but she didn't stop there. She actively sought out internships, working with independent production companies and gaining practical experience in various roles – from assisting with location scouting to managing social media campaigns. “Internships are crucial,” Alice emphasizes. “They're not just about ticking a box; they're about building connections, learning from professionals, and figuring out what you *don't* want to do as much as what you do.”
The Pivot: Finding the Right Fit
Alice's career path wasn't always linear. After graduating, she explored several different roles within the screen sector. She worked in marketing for a film distribution company, then transitioned to a role in audience engagement. While these experiences didn't always feel like the
