Becci Hurst

Meet Becci, an English Literature, History and Creative Writing graduate who now leads a Member Engagement Team in the theatre industry.

Becci’s time at Herts gave her the confidence, creativity, and analytical skills to build a career she loves. 'I lead the Member Engagement Team at the Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre, a membership organisation and trade body for theatre owners, operators and producers. My role now is to use member insights to ensure our strategy meets the needs and priorities of our members.'

Over the past decade, she has worked in events and membership organisations, where she has found her niche in the arts. 'I love visiting theatres all over the country, learning about their history and priorities, and making a meaningful difference to theatres, especially those based in historic buildings with unique challenges.'

Learning through variety and creativity

Graduating in 2015 with a degree in English Literature, History, and Creative Writing, Becci says the variety of her course was key to her success. 'The range of my degree allowed me to develop different skills and practice using them. Learning to analyse text and data from different sources to extract useful information has been vital throughout my career.' She originally applied for English Literature & Creative Writing but decided to add History once she arrived. 'I’m so glad I did, the variety of modules and types of history to study was incredible. I didn’t just learn about history; I learned how to apply research to real life.'

Drawing on her love of history, creative writing, and even drama, Becci now organises fantasy book conventions in her spare time, programming panels, logistics, and even scavenger hunts. 'I often dig out my old Literature essays for panel inspiration and use drama warm-up games as icebreakers!'

As part of her History studies, she gained practical experience by transcribing interviews and learning how research applies in the real world. She also attended the Cumberland Lodge weekend in Windsor Great Park, hearing from historians working in a variety of fields, including the curator of the John Lewis archives. 'Creative Writing taught me how to workshop projects and give and receive constructive feedback. I edit a lot of writing in my current role, so clarity, conciseness, and tone are really important, especially when dealing with sensitive topics.'

Her time in the Drama Society also helped build her confidence. 'We even took a show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival! Getting involved in societies and writing and directing a show taught me how to work with different people, speak publicly, and understand the process of putting on a theatre production, all skills that proved invaluable in my career.'

Advice for future students

'Get stuck in! It took me a few weeks to start getting involved in extracurriculars, but try something new, you’ll meet amazing people. And say yes to opportunities on your course too; those experiences helped me get onto the employment ladder. Organising drama performances for three years helped me land my first job in events at a hotel in Hatfield and later in the theatre industry.'

Becci is grateful for the opportunities her degree opened up and the confidence Herts gave her to pursue a career that connects people, art, and storytelling. 'I chose Hertfordshire because it offered flexible courses, a brilliant campus life, proximity to London, and a real melting pot of people from all over the world.'