Interview: Westminster alumna Xiaoyu Zhang shares transformative experience on The Network talent programme

1.    What was your experience like on The Network scheme?

The Network was truly a transformative experience. It was more than just a programme, it was a deep dive into the UK TV industry. The four days were incredibly intensive, packed with lectures given by influential directors, screenwriters and producers in the TV industry, and we had the chance to create an unscripted TV show, network and present pitches. Every moment was invaluable. The Network provided me with deeper insights into how unscripted TV shows are developed and produced in the UK. Most importantly, it connected me with a group of talented and passionate future creatives.

2.    What was the best part of the Edinburgh TV Festival?

Of all the fantastic experiences the highlight was undoubtedly the unscripted TV show training and our group’s final pitch session. As an international participant, collaborating with my team during the brainstorming process was incredibly rewarding. I gained firsthand insight into local humour, cultural references and what resonates with UK audiences, which really helped me break through cultural barriers. That kind of understanding is invaluable and will undoubtedly benefit me in my future career.

Likewise, working alongside other talented cohorts gave me a clear sense of my own gaps within the industry. This self-awareness has been crucial, as it has helped me identify specific areas I need to develop and has given me a clear target for my continued learning.

The pitch itself was another standout moment. We had to simulate a real-life project proposal and present our original show idea in front of audiences. It was challenging because we only had two days to prepare everything, but it pushed me far out of my comfort zone and gave me the confidence to pitch ideas assertively and professionally. 

3.    How did the Media and Development MA programme prepare you for the scheme?

Every module gave me a critical understanding of the global media landscape, especially the role of media in social development. This allowed me to approach the media content not just as a fan, but as a critical thinker with a unique perspective. In my application, I could articulate why I wanted to work in TV and link it to broader issues of storytelling and representation, which I believe made my application stand out.

Modules like Digital Media Production and Media Work Experience were hands-on. We were constantly pitching ideas and working in teams. During the course, I learned to undertake data research, represent the Unique Selling Point and most importantly, know about the audiences. This mirrored the fast-paced, collaborative environment of The Network and the industry itself, which helped me feel prepared to contribute meaningfully to workshops.

Also, the careers support at Westminster greatly helped me polish my CV and application. Before I started the first-round interview, one of my lecturers Lara Bellini was incredibly supportive, even organising mock interviews for me in class with other students to help me cover as many key points of the interview as possible.

4.    What advice would you give to other students interested in applying to similar schemes?

First and foremost, my advice would be to have a clear goal for your future in the UK television industry when applying for schemes like The Network. During the interview, it’s important to demonstrate a genuine interest in a specific area, whether it’s documentary filmmaking, entertainment shows or any other genre. For example, I talked about my passion for creating content that addresses the digital divide among older people and how being part of The Network would help me build the connections needed to make that happen.

For international students especially, I’d highly recommend getting familiar with major UK broadcasters and their popular shows and celebrities. Having that awareness not only helps you feel more confident during interviews and group discussions but also shows that you truly understand the landscape you’re hoping to join. 

5.    Why did you choose to study at the University of Westminster?

I was influenced greatly by a former colleague of mine who graduated from here. She is now working in China as a media and publicity manager for a renowned actress.

About five years ago, when I decided to transition from education to the media field, I was hesitant about whether to study abroad. It was at that time that she strongly encouraged me to pursue overseas studies to gain a multidimensional understanding of media and communication. She highly recommended the University of Westminster and spoke passionately about her own experience, emphasising its excellent location, strong industry connections and the practical opportunities available to students. Also, she specifically mentioned that the University is very welcoming to applicants from interdisciplinary backgrounds, especially in media studies, and now having studied here, I can confidently say this is absolutely true.

6.    What has been your favourite memory of Westminster so far?

It’s truly hard to pick just one favourite memory, as I’ve had so many meaningful experiences. For instance, during the winter term, our lecturer Dr Dimitris Boucas would bring sweets to almost every seminar to keep everyone energised and awake during afternoon theory sessions. It’s a simple but much-appreciated gesture. In our Media Work Experience module, the module leader regularly invited industry professionals, including HR specialists and producers, who shared key insights on breaking into the sector and even conducted mock interviews with us during class.

The University’s extracurricular activities also made a strong impression on me, often hosting cultural events around holidays from all over the world. For example, at Christmas, there was a workshop where we made wreaths using recycled fabrics, and during Lunar New Year, there were lion dances and calligraphy displays.

While among all these memorable experiences, visiting Meta and the BBC stand out as my favourite. These were incredible opportunities that very few students get. Our course leader Professor Winston Mano carefully connected these visits to what we had learned throughout the semester. He didn’t just arrange tours; he facilitated special lectures and discussions that helped us understand the inner workings of these major media organisations, making the theoretical knowledge come alive.

7.    Looking ahead, what are your career aspirations?

I hope to become a producer, with a particular focus on international co-productions and cross-cultural documentary storytelling. I am deeply passionate about developing projects that bring together diverse creative teams from around the world to tell stories that resonate across borders.

More specifically, I aspire to create cultural documentaries that explore unique social narratives and human experiences from different regions, helping audiences better understand the world we share. The skills and connections I’ve gained through my study at Westminster and experiences like The Network scheme have strengthened my determination to pursue this path and given me the confidence to engage meaningfully in a media and development perspective.

Find out more about Media and Communication courses at University of Westminster.