Alumni

Dawn Constance Mulvaney

Career Path: CACHE Alumni Editor, NCFE
Location: Newcastle, UK

Studying a Drama degree at Northumbria gave me access to a world of different environments. Working with people from all backgrounds to increase engagement and use the arts to make the world a better place. I've used it in everything I've done since. I worked in a Development team, using some of the knowledge I'd gained around arts funding and moved on to support people in the Asylum Seekers' Unit of Newcastle, whilst completing some arts projects with a Young People's Service. This led to me working in homelessness full time, at a Young People's hostel. Since then, I've loved working in advice and support, working in front line roles before starting with CACHE and NCFE, where I help the helpers! I get to manage resources and CPD for a great group of engaged professionals in Care and Early Years Education and it brings together all of my engagement and front line experience, with my administrative background.

What are you doing now?

I work as Alumni Editor for CACHE, managing an online resource, attending and speaking at conferences and running workshops and projects. It's different every day and I love helping people who help others as a vocation.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

The drama degree was community focused, rather than being about performing, which was much more what I wanted to do. At the time, I wanted to be a teacher, but I'm really pleased with how my path turned out!

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

Great mix of lectures and projects, with plenty of independent working and small group work which gave us a chance to build our skills and use our learning.

How connected was your course with industry?

Working with Paddy, who has trained all over the world as a performer was brilliant. Getting to work with so many visiting lecturers who have been successful both as performers and using their art for good was great and really opened up the world.

What was the best thing about your course?

The mix of different styles and opportunities that we were given. It really was a new world!

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

I learnt for myself at Northumbria and was given the space to explore, which helped me to develop a strong sense of my working style and how I best engage with materials and people. This has been the backbone of my continued professional development.