Angela Bryan - BA Photomedia & Design Communication

See it as your opportunity to experience new places and meet new people

I took the BA (Hons) Photomedia & Design Communication course at the University of Plymouth. In my current job I work as a research within the broadcast, film, video and interactive media sector. I still live in Plymouth.

My first job after graduating (still my current job) was as a TV Researcher - finding locations and contributors for programmes, and making filming arrangements for the crew.

I went to secondary school and, afterwards, to FE college in the West Midlands. I'm the first generation in my family to study a Higher Education course. I started at 18 years of age and graduated in 2004. After 16 I took an A/AS levels (or equivalent) course and then went straight to University.

I decided to go on to higher education because in the media industry it is advantageous to have a strong knowledge of the industry in both academic and practical terms. In this way I felt that a degree course would give me this experience as well as allow me time to begin building my contacts.

The best thing about Plymouth college of Art and Design (PCAD) was the dedication of the staff. The lecturers are committed to giving you the best learning experience possible, tailored to your own needs and interests. The worst part of PCAD was the canteen, v. bad food.

I chose my course because I had already completed my HND in Photomedia at Walsall College of Art and Technology, and was looking for a 'top up' course to turn it into a degree. I had decided that I wanted a equal balance between academic and practical areas. I found that the BA Photomedia & Design Communication encompassed my requirements.

I think you could have got childcare support whilst studying - I believe that the uni have a crèche and also funds available to parents whilst they are studying, as well as a variety of studying options e.g. part time. There was also learning support available whilst studying. At the start of the year we were all made aware that there were special funds, laptops, and support staff available to anyone who felt that they needed this.

I did have paid work whilst studying. I worked at Toys 'r' us as a Christmas job as I needed extra cash. Most Christmas jobs are either set days, or on a rota therefore it was not hard to fit in around my studies.

My advice to others who are thinking about going to university: I would advise students to do their homework thoroughly! Do not just go where your friends are going, or decide to stay at home because it is easier. See it as your opportunity to experience new places and meet new people; there are thousands of students who will be just as scared as you on their first day!

My financial advice to others is, before leaving for uni try to work over the summer, even part time can mean that you save a lot of cash for books, deposits and emergencies. Try and budget for each week, it may be boring but it stops you splurging every weekend. Join friends - swap clothes, have 'bring a bottle parties' it all saves cash and you still have fun!

In terms of life after university - I hope to progress onto being a Producer one day, or maybe I will branch off into a slightly different area, such as music. I am fortunate that many of my job skills are transferable.

At the moment I live in Plympton in Plymouth. As a TV Researcher every day is different, which makes it exiting and seeing the finished product makes it all worthwhile. The worst part is the long hours, sometimes dealing with difficult people, and working under pressure.

My advice for somebody wanting to get into my line of work is that if you want to be a researcher then prove it! Research the industry and/or company you are interested in. Watch programmes, listen to the radio - know what you like and why you like it. Be persistent, offer to work for free and then see what happens. Be proactive.

My final comment is: 'Enjoy them, they are the best days of your life' - this is so true of uni! Strike a balance and you can come out the other end with letters after your name, a bunch of friends for life, and memories that will be with you forever!More Stories >