Kirsty Proffitt
Current Employer/Organisation Name
East Media
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
I graduated from the University of Exeter in 2013 with a BA Hons degree in Drama. Whilst travelling Australasia I began my career in television, working for Network 10 in Sydney. Since returning to the UK I have worked on a number of high profile entertainment programmes including ‘The Royal Variety Performance’, ‘Tonight at the London Palladium’, ‘Hunted’, ‘All Star Musicals’, ‘Love Island’ and ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’. I progressed from Runner to Producer following a career in editorial television. I am now working in development at East Media and have just had my first daytime quiz commissioned.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
I’ve always been interested in the TV and film industry having been an extra in a couple of shoots growing up. I love how varied my work can be. One day I am working with high profile talent for a charity event, the next I am casting for a dating show or quiz. My job allows me to work on a range of different formats which come with their own challenges and experiences – no two days are the same.
Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?
Whilst at Exeter I helped set up the Drama Society in 2012. I was also a member of the Cheerleading and Dance societies.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
Our drama course was very varied and was predominantly practical based which I loved. My favourite modules were Dance (taught by the brilliant Pam Wood) and Boxing – which was an interesting first year option I took, looking at an ethnographical approach to female boxing.
What did you enjoy most about studying here?
I loved being on a campus with a relatively small year group. There was around 120 of us so it felt like you could really get to know peers.
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
Exeter offered the most practical drama course I could find without going to a drama school. There was a lot of time dedicated to performance which was supported by theory, as opposed to being too essay focussed. I also loved the city and campus.
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
I remember going to a BBC career lecture which was fascinating and gave me my first insight into TV production. It was really helpful to find out what happens behind the camera and a great opportunity to ask questions. I also found a lot of my course skills were transferable and fuelled my passion for the entertainment industry.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Start making contacts as soon as possible – offer to shadow someone or volunteer for work experience. You can find names of Producers, Writers, Coordinators etc on the credits of your favourite shows, then use those to find contact details. Always suggest a coffee meet up when you send a CV. It’s a lot easier to stand out and be remembered if they can put a face to a name.
What are your plans for the future?
My daytime quiz show will TX in 2022. I will continue to work at East Media to produce the first series.
