Completing an eight-week internship in Berlin, Germany, with the historic Kino Babylon cinema really affirmed that I’m on the right path. It was transformative. I proved to myself that I can continue learning, adapting and thriving in completely new environments – even at 49. Growth doesn’t stop at a certain age.

Operating since 1929, the Babylon is an iconic cinema known for its in-house orchestra accompanying silent films and for presenting films from across the last century from around the world. Helping create ways for audiences to experience this work, including through strong audience-development strategies, felt like being immersed in a living classroom where history, art and audience engagement came together every day. 

I was surprised by how much I connected with the work – film wasn’t originally a major passion of mine. Through research, content creation and time spent with the artistic director, I was really drawn in.

I enjoy working closely with artists and helping create ways for people to experience their work – bringing people into art forms they may only have a casual interest in and turning that curiosity into something lasting.

When I found myself needing to pivot my career, MacEwan felt like the right place to land. With years of experience in leadership and administration, and a deep love for music and the arts, the Arts and Cultural Management program brought those parts of my life together. It blends creativity, strategy and community. 

And the internship gave me a chance to experience how arts organizations operate in other cultures.

I’m passionate about supporting artists and helping audiences connect with meaningful cultural experiences. While my dream job would be working with a symphony orchestra, I’ve also learned to stay open to where opportunities might lead.

– Jenn Friesen, Arts and Cultural Management 

Learn more about opportunities for learning abroad as a MacEwan student.