Media Studies Masters UK

Before my fascination for the media world developed I like everyone else was subconsciously a part of it. The news that was on TV, the magazines that I read and the commercials that urged me to buy the products I bought. The media and the world it creates around us are always there whether we are aware of it or not. Then becoming a media student was like learning the tricks of the trade, being let in on all these secrets and I loved knowing why the media did things and how they accomplished them. By studying media at a degree level I feel I will be able to enhance my interest for the subject as well as expand my current knowledge and be able to gain new skills that will enable me to both advance and flourish within this area as well as taking great pleasure in doing so.

I have been involved in different aspects of media (especially advertising) for a few years. I have studied Media at both GCSE and A Level. When on these courses I worked on producing a variety of media projects including creating and airing a community radio station, producing and starring in an episode of a soap opera and comic book production. Whilst at 6th form I have worked on publicity shots for a variety of projects such as prospectuses and open evenings. I am also the design editor of the school paper a feat of which I am very proud. As well as participating in media related tasks on an educational level, I have taken my interest out side of just academic projects. For the government run scheme Connexions I worked on a PR campaign which involved me participating in many media based tasks such as designing a print based advert which was distributed throughout all the senior schools and colleges in the Birmingham and Solihull areas. I also created a website for a local youth club called the Den a council run scheme.

I'd like to think I have a positive impact on my school and 6th form where I am head girl. I was previously a prefect and ran a friendship group for new year sevens and eights. I try my hardest to change things for the better and enjoy working with pupils of all ages in the school in activities such as the school council and mentoring. In the summer of 2005 I undertook work experience with a drama group which taught young children morals through plays and I greatly gained from the experience. Along with media I am undertaking English and Photography A levels as I feel that both of them can greatly aid me in a media orientated direction.

My outside interests span a wide variety. I love to read some of my favourite authors being ''Dan Brown'' and ''JKRowling''. I also like to write and have recently had one of my poems published in a young author's collection. Photography and graphic designs are huge personal passions of mine; they give me the ability to express my self in a creative and positive way. Since July 2005 I have been part of the Birmingham and Solihull Youth Board and worked up to being a senior member. I enjoy spending time with my friends participating in social activities such as paintballing, laser quest, the cinema and bowling. On Saturdays I also have a part time Job at a library where I have to be organised as well as computer literate and complete tasks independently or part of a team. Last summer I spent 3 weeks travelling Europe and went to places such as 'Auschwitchz in Krakow and the 'Reichstag' in Berlin. The experience was amazing and allowed me insight to other countries cultures and lifestyles.

Media is a huge part of both my academic and personal life and I truly feel that placement on this course would help me in my future career ambitions in the media world. Living so far away from home whilst on the course would also help me gain independence and life skills.