Luke
Drake

"The LLB (Hons) Law (Sandwich) course was the main reason behind my decision to come to Nottingham Trent University. I had always wanted to read law, so when I saw the opportunity to add a year in industry I was immediately attracted.

"My role within the Legal and Business Affairs team at Universal Pictures’ international home entertainment head office is varied to say the least. The department of fifteen qualified and non-qualified staff comprises several teams which cover all aspects of content production, content acquisition, rights management, licensing, litigation, procurement and commercial affairs and I am fortunate to have the opportunity to assist and learn from all of them.

"Universal Pictures is famous for the content it produces, whether it’s a Hollywood blockbuster or home-grown UK stand-up comedy content like Michael McIntyre. As part of my role I assist the lawyers in drafting the numerous contractual agreements that help the company to go about its business in creating, distributing and marketing entertainment products. It’s certainly exciting to work on projects involving world-famous talent!

"In addition to assisting the legal team, I helped organise Universal’s inaugural Content Protection Week, an internal awareness week that aims to promote how we can help the fight against physical and digital piracy. This required in-depth research about the impacts of piracy within the entertainment industry as well as coordinating a series of events and providing promotional material. I am currently involved in a project to create and launch the company’s first social media policy which aims to educate the business on how to use social media tools responsibly when advertising and promoting Universal content. This is another example of the diversity of activities I've been able to get involved with during my placement.

"The responsibility I've been given within this role has gradually built up from day one. While I'm obviously not expected to produce the standard of work of a ten year qualified lawyer, it is a busy and professional environment so the pressure is always on (though it’s always nice to know that help is always at hand). The team I work with are all brilliant lawyers and are great to learn from.

"With twelve months of practical legal and business affairs experience in one of the world’s biggest media companies, I am hopeful that my experience and contributions to Universal Pictures will make me stand out from other training contract applicants. Every day I am expanding my technical legal knowledge and learning new practical skills to supplement my previous learning at undergraduate level. I believe that is the real benefit of the placement year.

"I would highly recommend doing a placement year. My advice would be to work hard, take every opportunity to learn from those around you and most of all…enjoy it! I’ve learnt so much and met some brilliant people - and the film premieres aren’t too bad either!"