Why you chose to study a BTEC and why you chose Kingston College?
When I started exploring further education, I thought hard about what I wanted from it and how I wanted to spend the next two years of my life. As someone with dyslexia, I’ve never enjoyed timed exams. Instead of focusing on what I wanted to say, I was stuck worrying about spelling, grammar, and whether my answers even made sense. So I immediately looked into courses where exams weren’t the main focus. Most of those turned out to be Apprenticeships or BTECs. After looking into both, BTECs stood out. I loved the creative freedom that came with coursework and the fact that I’d be assessed on the work I actually produced—not just what I could remember at the end of the year. I chose Kingston for two main reasons. First, their incredible facilities at the CIC building. When I toured it on the open day, I was blown away by everything they offered—from the music studios and art room to their brilliant TV studio. The second reason was the atmosphere. From the moment I walked in on my first open day, I felt like I’d be welcomed and accepted for who I am. It felt like a place where creativity was respected and encouraged to grow. From then on, I knew Kingston was where I wanted to be.
Your plans after you complete your course?
After I complete the BTEC in Media Studies I'm going to study at a London College of Communication doing a BA (Hons) in Film Practice.
Favourite part of your course?
My favourite part of the course is the collaboration between creatives. There’s nothing quite like the energy of a team all working on a project, ideas flowing, and actually bringing them to life. It’s that sense of teamwork that makes this course so special—a group of people coming together to turn an idea into reality. As for the course itself, I love the variety. One minute you’re working on a documentary, the next a single-camera drama, and then you’re diving into live TV. It keeps things exciting and pushes you to try new things.
Is College life what you expected?
I adapted well to College life, both socially and academically, and I embraced the independence that came with it. With fewer hours in College, you have more time to balance other parts of your life—but that also means there’s an expectation that you’ll put in the work on your own. Finding that balance really brings out your independent side. Making friends came naturally. Most people are in the same boat and just want to connect, so it was easy to find my crowd. What really surprised me was the freedom and respect you're given—it wasn’t something I was used to. I half expected college to feel like secondary school with its strict rules and limitations, but it turned out to be the opposite. You’re treated like a young adult, and your individuality is actually respected.
Any advice to those thinking about applying for your course?
To do this course, you need to be comfortable working in a team. If you’re not willing to collaborate, it’ll be hard to bring your ideas to life. That said, even if you're not the most social person—I’m not either—take the leap. If you really want a career in this industry, working with others is essential. And honestly, for me, it’s the best part of making films and content. My other piece of advice: make full use of the facilities and the time you’re given for your projects. It’s the best way to get the most out of Kingston—and trust me, the work can pile up fast if you don’t.
Any opportunities you’ve enjoyed here that you particularly loved?
Probably the highlight for me was the TV studio project in my second year—planning our own show, setting everything up, rehearsing, and then broadcasting it live. The whole process was exhilarating. It felt like preparing for a school play, then stepping out on opening night and performing it live in front of an audience. And then there’s all the amazing opportunities through KIFF (Kingston International Film Festival). From creating an ad for the festival to having our own films screened—it’s been an incredible experience.
Any amazing tutors or met great new friends?
I would have never made it as far as I did without the support of my tutors and my dear friends on the course, Tatiana and Lukas. They genuinely helped me so much—from pushing me to learn new things and branch out of my comfort zone when it comes to the job roles I picked, to majorly helping me come out of my shell when it comes to talking to people I don't know, and even helping me understand what it means to lead a team of brilliant creatives. Everything I can do now is due to their support.
