Aniek worked for Mysteryland and ADE

Where did you do your internships and how did you find them? 
My first internship was at Revolution Foundation, where I had previously been a volunteer. Because I knew the team, it immediately felt like the right place to gain my first professional experience.

For my second internship, I applied to a wide range of organisations that I had been following and admiring for a long time, all via their own websites. In the end, I chose the artist handling/production internship at Dekmantel. As a big fan of their festivals, I always kept a close eye on their social media, and when the vacancy came up, I knew immediately: I had to go for it.

How did you end up doing internships at these companies? 
My network played a big role at Revolution Foundation. Through my previous volunteer work, I already had a lot of contact with the team and knew that I could learn a lot about sustainability within the events world. At Dekmantel, my motivation was mainly content-related. For a few years, I had wanted to do an internship at a large festival organisation, but it always seemed like a distant dream. When I saw the opportunity at Dekmantel, I decided to go for it. I admire their artistic choices, their international reputation and the careful way in which they organise their events. It felt like the perfect place to develop myself further in a professional, inspiring and creative environment.

What was the coolest thing you experienced during your internship?  
At Revolution, it was the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) 2024. I worked all the night shows there as a project manager and cycled from location to location for four nights (from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.): DGTL, Loveland, Straf_werk and more... It felt surreal. These were festivals that I had always seen as inspiration, and suddenly I was working in the middle of them and had contact with all the different parties. At Dekmantel, working within such an inspiring team was particularly special. I had the opportunity to meet artists I had been a fan of for years and really felt part of the process. The absolute highlight was being allowed to go to Selectors in Croatia. But Dekmantel Festival itself was also unforgettable: weeks of preparation, coordinating the artist check-in during three intensive show days, managing the crew and personally welcoming the artists.

What did you learn the most from? 
At Revolution, I was immediately thrown in at the deep end. I was given responsibilities for Mysteryland and ADE that were exciting, but that taught me how important proactivity is. Your attitude and energy often determine whether people trust you and give you opportunities. I also gained insight into how different parties work together to bring a festival to life, and that making mistakes is part of the learning process.

At Dekmantel, I discovered that my heart truly lies with the artists and the human side of the events industry. There, I learned how essential clear communication, flexibility, and overview are in supporting artists and their crews. The sector is often hectic and unpredictable, but it was precisely in that chaos that I learned to set priorities, stay calm and switch gears effectively. I also realised how important it is to pause and reflect on the beautiful moments. To enjoy what you achieve together and be proud of the teamwork that makes such a big event possible.

What tips would you give other students?

1. Try everything 
It sounds cliché, but you only know what you really like by doing it yourself. When I was thinking about my first internships, I was sure I wanted to go into marketing. But at Dekmantel, I had the opportunity to shadow the marketing team for a bit. On paper, it seemed perfect, but in practice, I realised that it really wasn't my thing after all. At the same time, artist handling allowed me to discover a side of the industry that really energises me. So dare to try things, even if they don't seem like your first choice. Every experience teaches you something and brings you closer to where you belong.

2. Be proactive and enthusiastic 
In this sector, you won't stand out by sitting still and waiting. If you show that you are motivated and take initiative, you will be noticed more quickly and given more responsibility. Because I was always willing to go the extra mile and show my enthusiasm, I was given opportunities I never expected. Enthusiasm is contagious. And it often makes people want to ask you back again.

3. Don't force networking 
Many students think you have to network very actively to get ahead. But the most valuable connections often arise naturally. Not because you necessarily need someone, but because you enjoy what you do together and have a good working relationship. I've noticed that when you just be yourself, smile, collaborate and enjoy yourself, people remember you. It is precisely these natural connections that ensure that you will be asked back later or given new opportunities. There is nothing wrong with networking, of course, but don't put so much pressure on yourself. 

4. Don't lose yourself in ambition 
It's very easy to keep thinking: ‘I have to go further, I have to go higher, I have to go faster.’ Especially in a sector where everyone is ambitious and where a lot is happening. But I've learned that you have to enjoy where you are right now. Every step is valuable and helps you move forward. If you're too preoccupied with the future, you forget to enjoy the special moments you're already experiencing. This is something I still need to work on.

5. Take good care of yourself 
The events world is intense: long days, pulling all-nighters, a lot of responsibility. I've seen people close to me burn out because of this. And that's something you really want to avoid. Your work is important, but never more important than your health. Learn your limits and stick to them. If you don't take good care of yourself, you won't be able to give your best to your work or to others.

What are your plans for the rest of your studies, or do you perhaps already have plans for when you finish your studies? 
I am currently taking a minor in International Music Management, with a focus on artist branding, publishing and touring. And before I finish my studies, I am actively looking for graduation internships. Fortunately, I already have a few interviews scheduled and I am still sending out applications, so I have a good feeling about it!  

I have also just finished Amsterdam Dance Event, where I worked at six different events in various roles, from ADE Pro Pass host to stage manager, brand activation and welcome host. It was an intense week, but always one of the best times of the year. So if I can give one more tip: go and work during ADE!

I will soon be registering as a freelancer. My plan is to take on various assignments so that I can continue to grow and create even more opportunities within the industry. I am always open to new opportunities and don't say no quickly when help is needed. So if you are looking for someone, you know where to find me! I also want to learn more about the club scene, so that I can get to know that side of the industry as well as the festivals. With the winter months approaching, this is the perfect time to further explore the club scene!  

In this industry, you never know what might come your way, so I'm taking it step by step and letting it come to me. Step one: get my minor and finish this degree strong!