We are all influenced, educated, entertained and informed through media products; and this is what excites me about the prospect of continuing my studies at degree level, as it will enable me to empower the audience to see things from different perspectives. By studying a BA Media Communication course it would equip me with the necessary skills for a diverse range of career options, not only within the media industry but in other professions.
Throughout my GCSE and A level media studies my teacher’s passion for his subject has inspired and motivated me to aspire to a career in media. I have learnt many valuable practical skills and theoretical knowledge that would assist me in my undergraduate studies.
In my four years of media studies I have reached a standard that has enabled me to achieve distinctions, using Adobe Premier Pro and Adobe audition working on the post-production of many short films, adverts and radio shows. Furthermore, I have used production equipment including; Video cameras (Canon XL1), handheld video cameras (Panasonic) and audio recording equipment. I have also learnt media professional practices’ such as; risk assessments, equipment forms, auditioning cast and directing films. The academic side to media studies included portfolios on newspapers, history and development of film, television, radio and specific genres, this has given me an in depth understanding of the media industry. Using this knowledge and the advice I have gained from being in contact with NME (New Musical Express) Journalist ‘James McMahon,’ has helped my contribution in a team environment to set up my Sixth Form’s first newspaper, ‘The Liber-teen’. The first issue is due to be released early next year; I am currently writing music reviews for bands from the local area, whilst also taking to role of co-editor.
English Language has developed and enhanced my analytical and writing skills through studying a variety of language used in everyday life. I now have a better understanding of interactions, both verbal and non-verbal through using the language frameworks. Lexical field has made me aware of how I and others communicate with different audiences; this has improved my ability to interact with audiences through the different products of media and performing arts.
In my last year of high school I was a senior prefect, which put me in control of a team of prefects. This has helped my communication skills, confidence and ability to address a large audience.
Away from my academic studies, I have a strong passion for sport and music and have recently returned from a tour of Denmark with my football academy (PFA- Professional Football Academy) which has given a great life experience. Captaining my schools football team has again improved my communication and leadership skills. Apart from football, I have a commitment to charity work. In February I ran a Sponsored half marathon in aid of Great Ormond Street. Furthermore, I have participated in the Duke of Edinburgh's award and have achieved awards at both bronze and silver and currently taking part in gold.
Through my GCSE and A levels studies of Media I have gained knowledge of a man called ‘Rupert Murdoch.’ This man, in my opinion, is one of the most powerful men on the planet. He uses media to influence many people, his company ‘News Corporation,’ started as just a single newspaper in Adelaide but has expanded into a nationwide corporation which reminds me of the motto ‘Who dares-wins’ which is taken from the S.A.S. and has also been quoted in many episodes of BBC’s ‘Only Fools and Horses.’ This is a motto I live by.
I am looking forward to university life where my enthusiasm for learning and social interaction will only flourish further.
