Freya Markula - English graduate
Freya Markula's BA in Art history and English has helped her develop the necessary skills in her role as an Image Orders Technician.
Key facts
Career: Image Orders Technician at Auckland War Memorial Museum
Programme: Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
Subjects: English; Art History
“As an Image Orders Technician, I handle requests for images of collection objects from internal and external sources. These images are frequently used for private research, featured in publications, and displayed in exhibitions at various cultural institutions. I assess rights and cultural permissions to ensure images are provided thoughtfully and respectfully. I also collaborate with collection managers to identify objects lacking digital representations and photograph them to enhance the museum's online accessibility.
“One of the most exciting aspects of my job is the diverse range of the museum’s collections. I work with images from various departments, collecting areas and locations. Since most of the museum’s collections are not on display, I always appreciate the opportunity to see objects which are otherwise hidden from view.
The time management skills I honed during my studies have proven invaluable. I’ve developed strategies to track my progress and manage tasks, which is essential for managing multiple responsibilities and overlapping deadlines.
“The critical thinking skills I cultivated at university are vital in my role, especially as my work often involves problem-solving, whether determining the best method for cataloguing an object or ensuring its safe rehousing. Handling museum objects requires critical thinking to ensure each item is treated with the utmost care and respect.
“I pursued a Bachelor of Arts because the subjects available were the only ones that truly engaged me in school. Although I enjoyed studying, I found subjects like maths and science didn't offer the creative outlet I sought. English was my favourite subject, which led me to choose it as my major when I started university. Since my high school didn't offer Art History, I took a chance by enrolling in a degree that would allow me to explore my interest in art further. I'm glad I made that decision, as Art History quickly became my passion and the focus of my postgraduate studies.
“I would advise future students to make the most of the time at university, because the amount that you learn while studying is unmatched. It can be easy to set high expectations for yourself that make it difficult to enjoy your time at school, but your experience at university is what you will remember long after you graduate.”