Hi, I’m Monet Page and I work as a Talent and Contracting Assistant at ITV Studios.

My role

As a Talent & Resourcing Assistant for ITV Studios Drama, my role is to help ensure we consistently source the best editorial and production talent in the industry. Throughout my degree, which I graduated from in 2023, I discovered a love for the television industry – specifically production. Taking this passion, I decided to pursue a Master’s in Production Management straight after my graduation, while working full time in hospitality and trying to gain a few Runner credits where I could. After graduating from my MA in December 2024, I began my role here at ITV Studios! I work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing the end-to-end recruitment process for Coronation Street, Emmerdale and our ITV Studios Drama labels, while championing our commitment to diversity and inclusion to ensure our teams are fully representative of our audience. Whether I’m orchestrating interview logistics, hosting assessment days in London, or networking with upcoming talent, I take pride in my work. I love meeting new people and I have a real passion for both Northern and entry-level talent, so being in this role is very rewarding.

Why I chose to study my degree

I chose to study Drama and Film Studies at the University of Manchester for several reasons. Firstly, the university’s location was a major draw, placing me in the heart of a vibrant city I had always loved visiting. Beyond that, the University of Manchester boasts an excellent reputation, both for its overall academic standing and specifically for the quality of its Drama and Film Studies course and its past alumni. My decision was further solidified after attending an open day; the staff were incredibly approachable and accommodating, and I was captivated by the facilities and the beautiful setting, with the Martin Harris Centre situated right in the creative hub that is Manchester.

My career path

When I began my time at university, I initially harboured theatre and acting ambitions, but my time at the University of Manchester significantly influenced my career path towards filmmaking. In my second year, I undertook my favourite module of the course (Television Drama, then run by Sophie Everest and Rob Watts) and I joined the Filmmaking Society, where I participated in several short films before becoming Publicity Manager and eventually Co-President. Alongside my fellow committee members, I helped to grow and stabilise the society by recruiting more members and securing vital funding, which we won in the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre x SU Pitch It! Competition. The pitching skills I developed during this competition have proven invaluable in my career. It was through these experiences that I discovered a love for production, ultimately leading me to pursue an MA in Production Management.

My course helped me to develop many key skills which have aided me throughout my career so far. Many of these are overlooked, but are essential to working efficiently. One of the most valuable skills I gained from my course was effective time management. Balancing lectures, seminars, essays, and my Filmmaking responsibilities required careful planning and discipline. These organisational abilities have been directly transferable to my current role at ITV Studios, where I juggle multiple tasks, from scheduling interviews and assessment days to headhunting for various roles across multiple shows. The research skills I honed during my course have also been incredibly beneficial in my career. Whether it was delving into academic texts or analysing scenes from films, I learned to systematically gather, evaluate, and synthesise information. These abilities are directly applicable to my role, where I often need to quickly scan for specific roles, and it is through my time at university I am able to do this so quickly and efficiently.

Most surprising takeaway from my degree

The most surprising and impactful takeaway from my course, which has helped me immensely in post-grad life, has been the people I’ve met. My time at university allowed me to build a network of like-minded individuals, many of whom I now work alongside in the industry.

Advice I would give to students

Schedule your time well! It can get really busy when you have assignments due, society events, having a part-time job and trying to see your friends but it is possible and you can still have fun!

Make the most of every opportunity! Societies, work experience, networking – imposter syndrome can sometimes stand in the way but fake it til you make it! Don’t compare yourself to anyone else – some people make life long friends, others just leave with their (well earned) degree! Make those Uni years what you want them to be and don’t worry about anyone else.

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