Rhianwen is a graduate from the BA Journalism, Media & Communication and Law programme at the University of Strathclyde
Tell us a little bit about your background before beginning the course...
I grew up in a beautiful country park in the central belt of Scotland, surrounded by nature because of my parent’s careers within the agricultural/countryside industries. Throughout my school years, I was always drawn to English and writing-based subjects. This interest culminated in writing a short children’s book in my 6th year as part of the Young Enterprise programme.
What drew you towards undertaking this degree?
While no one in my family has been involved in Law or Journalism, we have always engaged in lively discussions about current events and issues related to these fields. These conversations fuelled my interest in how Law and Journalism each investigate various aspects of truth, ethics, and societal issues. The BA Hons Journalism, Media & Communication and Law programme at the University of Strathclyde offered the perfect blend of disciplines to help me learn, grow, and develop both as a student and as an individual.
Tell us about the format of the programme. What was a typical working week like?
The BA Joint Honours programme in Law and Journalism, Media, and Communication offered a dynamic and engaging academic experience. A typical working week involved preparing for lectures and tutorials by completing readings, watching relevant materials, and formulating answers to discussion questions. I often spent time in the Learning and Teaching building, as well as the library, to focus on these tasks. Balancing the coursework from two disciplines required strong organisational skills. I set personal deadlines at the start of each semester to ensure I stayed on top of my assignments. This approach helped me manage the workload effectively and maintain a clear focus on my studies. The highlights for me, particularly in the Law school, were the diverse class options available in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years. This flexibility allowed me to tailor my studies to my interests, as I didn't have to study areas of Law that didn't interest me. This ability to customise my coursework is a distinctive and valuable aspect of the BA Joint Honours programme.
Tell us a little bit about your dissertation topic...
My dissertation focused on the regulatory guidelines of Ofcom and reality television, particularly the aftercare for contestants. This topic was inspired by the Law, Film, and Popular Culture class I took in my 3rd year. While the dissertation was a challenging endeavour, it proved to be incredibly rewarding. I received excellent support from my supervisor, Dr. Michael Randall, and learned a great deal through the research and writing process.
What is the academic support at Strathclyde like?
The academic support at Strathclyde was exceptionally positive for me. Whether I had small queries about coursework or needed additional resources, lecturers and tutors were prompt and understanding in their responses. I always felt that the academic staff genuinely wanted the best for me and were dedicated to enhancing my learning experience. Their constructive feedback and guidance significantly developed my academic skills and abilities.
What are your future career goals?
I am taking a year to travel after completing my degree. Following this, I hope to either continue my studies in law or pursue a career in media or communications.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for this course?
The main pieces of advice I would give are:
- Be organised with deadlines: staying on top of deadlines is crucial for your success in the programme.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help: the academic staff are there to support you, so make use of their expertise and guidance when you need it.
- Be disciplined with your study time: setting aside time for readings and preparation for lectures and tutorials is essential. This will help you deepen your knowledge and produce high-quality work in assignments and exams.
- Enjoy the experience: university life goes by quickly. Embrace the journey, as it will help you grow both personally and academically. Remember, you get out what you put in.