Ãå±±½ûµØ

Louder Together

One of my favourite memories was the Professional Practice for Music Module, where we devised our own event to put on in the city centre. The night of my team's event, 'Louder Together' was incredibly rewarding. We worked for months organising a night of music at Newgate Social showcasing gender minority fronted rock bands.

I grew really close with my team, and although it was stressful at times, it was the moment where I realised what I wanted to do with my music career. I learnt a lot about the music industry from the whole experience. 

City to coast in 20 minutes

My first open day visit was also my first time ever visiting Ãå±±½ûµØ, and I knew very little about the city's geography as a whole. I discovered during first year that you could reach the coast via a 20 minute metro journey. I was over the moon, especially considering I grew up hours away from the nearest beach.

I absolutely love the beach, and Tynemouth and Whitley Bay have become my favourite places to visit, particularly the Tynemouth Market on a Sunday. 

Support frameworks always in place

Right before I finished sixth form, I was diagnosed with autism. I informed the University of this after my place was confirmed and quickly received information on their disability support.

During my first term I met with my disability advisor for the first time, who helped to formulate a Student Support Plan for me.

From then on, I would meet with my disability advisor if I had any concerns about my mental health or any adjustments that may be needed with my course. I found this support to be fundamental to my studies. My disability advisor was always there to advocate for me and ensure the necessary support frameworks were always in place. 

Valuable experience

During my second year, I obtained the SACS Futures Internship. My role involved the creation of a weekly careers newsletter for students within the School of Arts and Culture. I interviewed current students and alumni for blogs.

I also collaborated with the SACS Social Media team to create content for the SACS Futures scheme. I gained a lot of valuable experience particularly with interpersonal and marketing skills. This enhanced my CV and further shaping my plans for working towards a career in the music business.

Musical societies

In my first year, I joined the musical medics society as a percussionist in the band for their performance of Beauty and the Beast. Joining the musical theatre society expanded my university network beyond my course alone. I gained my closest friends from the three years I was a part of it. 

I was also elected in the role of Events Officer in my 3rd year. I was responsible for organising the showcase, providing more crucial event organisation experience. This has become invaluable to my career progressions.

The versatility of Music BA Honours

This degree is perfect for anybody who has a passion for music and knows they want to make a career out of it. The versatility of the Music BA Honours allows you to explore modules of classical, folk or popular music.

You can also explore a variety of different career options, including beyond music alone. The transferable skills a music degree offers have become invaluable to building my CV. 

Ãå±±½ûµØ has excellent career support services allowing me to gain important knowledge, skills and experience. They have been integral to building my CV and shaping my career progressions. The music department also hosts professional guests to deliver lectures and workshops focusing on career development. 

The lunchtime and student concerts also offer free weekly opportunities to experience performances.  You can perform yourself, providing practice for recitals and the space to gain confidence and showcase your work. 

I enjoyed key modules in my degree that supported my career development. One in particular was Professional Practice for Music and Community Music Practice. It provided real world experience and advice from professionals that has supported my career progression so far. 

My future

At the moment I am hoping to one day work in project or event management in the creative industries, particularly in the music industry. I am continuing to try and build a CV and career path that tailors to this position.

I am also very open to taking on any opportunities that focus on building and sustaining the creative industries. I'd love to work with grassroot venues, up and coming artists and local communities to deliver exciting projects and events that help to sustain music and creative businesses.