Rachel Nielsen
Rachel Nielsen (Drama and Film Studies 2019) is a Content and Creative Strategist at Twirl, a leading User-Generated Content (UGC) platform that helps brands produce authentic digital content.
Rachel's story
Rachel graduated from Sussex in 2022 and has over seven years of content creation experience, which began with documenting her recovery journey on YouTube after a car accident left her re-learning how to walk. Sharing weekly videos sparked a deep passion for storytelling and a newfound gratitude for life, leading her to Sussex to study Drama and Film. Today, she works with brands across industries to develop impactful marketing campaigns, shaped by her creative foundations and multicultural background. Outside of work, she creates lifestyle TikToks that promote work-life balance and personal growth, enjoys reading, playing football, and finding joy in the everyday.
Rachel will be speaking at our Sussex Connect event – Thriving at Work: Balancing your career with your wellbeing, sharing practical strategies for building and maintaining resilience in times of change and tips for thriving in both your career and wellbeing while avoiding burnout.
What made you choose Sussex and your course?
Out of a genuine passion for learning rather than a direct career path. Drama wasn’t part of my high school curriculum, but I pursued it through extracurricular activities – directing plays, starring in productions, and advocating for drama to become an official part of the curriculum. I also led my school’s student marketing team and ran the student news channel, fuelling my interest in content creation and film. Sussex’s top-ranking Drama and Film program offered the foundation I lacked, and Brighton’s vibrant, creative atmosphere provided an exciting contrast to growing up in Jakarta. While not directly career-focused, my course has enriched my creative approach in my career today. 
The support and opportunities at Sussex gave me the tools, confidence, and inspiration to pursue a career that blends creativity, strategy, and social responsibility.” Rachel nielsen
Drama and Film Studies
Are there any experiences from your time at Sussex which have helped you in your career so far?
The opportunities at Sussex, especially through societies, played a huge role in shaping my career. Managing social media for societies like Drama Society, Fabrik Fashion Magazine, and the International Student Forum allowed me to build a strong portfolio, giving me the confidence to apply for marketing roles despite not having a formal background in the field.
Career and Entrepreneurship events at Sussex also encouraged me to take the initiative and pursue creative opportunities outside of my studies. These experiences helped me develop practical skills in content creation, social media management, and digital marketing, all of which are central to my current role.
Overall, the support and opportunities at Sussex gave me the tools, confidence, and inspiration to pursue a career that blends creativity, strategy, and social responsibility. 
How did your course influence how you approach your current role in social media marketing?
The module, ‘Viewing Women’, which explored how women are represented in film, was pivotal in my development. My essay for the module earned the highest grade in my class and led to me receiving the 2022 prize for Outstanding Achievement and Contribution to the Student Experience in Film Studies. This module challenged my understanding of diversity and representation in modern media. As a person of colour, it gave me the confidence to advocate for greater representation in the creative industries, take up space in professional environments, and use my multicultural background as a strength. Today, I apply this mindset in my career by championing diversity and inclusion in creative media campaigns, ensuring that content resonates with diverse audiences in authentic ways. 
You received a Gold (earning 125 points and exceeding the 75-point requirement). What did the experience teach you?
The recognition from the Spirit of Sussex Award not only validated my efforts but also provided invaluable support and encouragement. It allowed me to showcase my small business and creative projects at various student events, further boosting my confidence and entrepreneurial spirit.
This experience taught me the importance of balancing creativity with business acumen, a lesson that continues to guide my career in marketing and content strategy. 
What top tips would you give to students and recent graduates looking for a career in content creation?
If you can’t find work experience – make it! Offer to support your societies with content or film events and tag the brands involved. Just putting your work out there (even if it doesn’t go viral) helps show your skills. Join platforms like to find paid creative gigs too!
Favourite place in Brighton?
The beach in spring! It’s the perfect balance – calm but not empty, warm but not too hot. So many of my favourite memories from Brighton are tied to the beach.
What has been your favourite project so far at Twirl?
I’ve loved working on events where me and my coworkers can really come together and celebrate what we've built. Co-hosting one with was such a highlight – meeting creators in person, hosting a panel, and just seeing all our planning come to life was really rewarding.
How does your company promote wellbeing in the workplace?
In so many ways – from snacks and walking pads in the office to flexible work-from-home options and wellbeing budgets. The biggest thing for me is being able to work remotely from Indonesia to see my family once or twice a year. It’s made such a difference to both my personal wellbeing and professional motivation.
How do you relax outside work?
I love reading, catching up with family, going for coffee or brunch with friends, long walks, and playing football with – it’s a great mix of calm and connection.
Top tips for students and grads looking for employers that support work-life balance?
Ask questions! During interviews or offer stages, ask about flexibility, benefits, or anything personal that matters to you. If salary isn’t negotiable, see if benefits or bonuses are. Also, reach out to current employees on LinkedIn to get a real feel for the culture.
Rachel is among thousands of inspiring alumni on . Join now to seek mentoring and industry advice and get a head start on your career.