As an intern with the marketing team at the National Extension College (NEC), I had the chance to dive into a variety of tasks, each giving me a better understanding of the world of education marketing. My role was quite diverse—I handled administrative tasks, downloaded and organised course materials, conducted competitor analysis, and even got involved in writing case studies.

This experience not only honed my skills but also gave me a glimpse into the inner workings of an educational institution dedicated to remote learning.

NEC’s Working Environment:

One of the most immediate differences I noticed whilst working with NEC was the environment. Having previously worked from corporate settings where the atmosphere can be quite formal and structured, working from home for NEC was a refreshing change. Remote work offered flexibility that I found incredibly valuable, not just in terms of managing my time but also in fostering creativity.

Without the rigid boundaries of a typical office, I felt more relaxed and productive, which made a huge difference in how I approached my work. It’s surprising how much of a positive impact a comfortable, home-based workspace can have on performance. Whilst working from home was a different and new experience for me, I became quickly accustomed to it solely through the help and friendliness of my team.

My 12 weeks with NEC have taught me the value of good colleagues and how a supportive, collaborative environment can make all the difference in adapting to new challenges. The trust and encouragement I received from my team not only eased my transition to remote work but also helped me grow both personally and professionally.

The small size of NEC also stood out to me. In contrast to larger organisations where it’s easy to feel like just another cog in the machine, NEC’s smaller, more close knit setup allowed me to contribute meaningfully and engage with the team in a more personal way. There was a sense of community, and the informal, yet professional, environment made it much easier to communicate ideas, receive feedback, and grow during my time there. Despite being a hybrid working environment, the NEC team feels incredibly cohesive and connected. Everyone knows each other, and it truly feels like one big supportive community. The group chats are always lively, filled with light-hearted banter, playful GIFs, and thoughtful touches like birthday messages and welfare reminders. 

The future of remote learning and education:

The future of remote learning and education holds incredible potential, and my experience at NEC has shown just how dedicated the team is to making that future a reality. NEC’s focus on ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to quality education is evident in every aspect of their work. From creating engaging course content to providing strong support systems, they are committed to helping learners succeed, regardless of their situation. What has truly inspired me is seeing how every team member—whether in marketing or student services—contributes with genuine care and effort, always keeping students at the forefront of their work. This commitment to ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive demonstrates NEC’s role in shaping a future where education is accessible to all, and I’m grateful to have been a part of this journey.

Concluding thoughts:

My internship at NEC has been an enlightening and rewarding experience.

It has provided me with valuable insights into the education sector while reinforcing the importance of community and support in achieving shared goals. As I move forward in my career, I carry with me the lessons learned and the inspiration drawn from my time at NEC—a place where commitment to students and quality education truly makes a difference.