The immediate outcome for one student was that Athena Films offered to pay her to develop some of her ideas – and employ the student on the project if it is commissioned.

Eighteen professionals from a wide range of backgrounds and career stages were on hand to meet informally with students from Bournemouth, Solent, Portsmouth and Winchester universities to discuss current TV issues and career development possibilities.

Many were alumni from those institutions, which provided an extra resonance for those attending. Some had only just graduated themselves, while others were now in senior editorial roles.

The TV professionals discussed the impact of changing formats and fragmenting viewing patterns on programme-makers, as well as more vocational issues such as how to continue developing skills in the workplace.

This session was followed by two hours of informal contact between the professionals and students.

Commenting on the event, Southern Centre Chair Stephanie Farmer said, “Every year Meet the professionals provides an amazing opportunity for students to practise their networking skills, and make contacts for placements and career development.

"It’s become the essential ‘go to’ event for students in the south.”