Jim’s Story
Jim is studying for a Foundation degree in Broadcast Media at University Centre Hastings (UCH)
Jim is 21. He went to the Grove School in Hastings, where he was an Aimhigher student. Jim started studying for A levels in Maths, Physics, Computing and PE at St Leonard’s 6th form but realised part way through that he was not enjoying them or getting good marks. So, after a rethink, he did Computing and Media Studies instead. Jim applied for degree courses at London universities but unfortunately didn’t get in.
After discussing his options with an adviser at UCH (University Centre Hastings, part of the University of Brighton), he had an interview and was offered a place on the Foundation degree in Broadcast Media. Jim found the Foundation degree suited him because it was very hands on, with a lot of emphasis on the practical side of Broadcast Media.
Although his contact hours were only 3 days a week, he was expected to be studying on his own the rest of the time. Not only has the course itself given Jim lots of hands on experience, it has also increased his social and team skills.
The course has also led to a range of work opportunities, including summer work in charge of projects for Channel 1066, a local web channel company. He got to work as a cameraman, editor and director of media. He already has around 20 projects on his CV and hopes that these will help him find a job when he has finished his studies.
As well as studying for his degree, Jim also works part-time teaching practical skills in media to media NVQ students, and finds time to play bass in Los Salvadores, spending most of his weekends gigging.
He gets a full grant and loan as well as a bursary from the university and another from a local charitable trust. He has to keep an eye on his money, especially as he has to run a car in order to get to gigs, but he is managing financially, and is learning how to juggle a budget.
Jim is the first member of his family to go to university and recommends it, as much as for the overall experience as for the education.
