Hometown: Penrith
Course studied at Kendal College: Music
What was it like being a student at the College?
Brilliant. I had an amazing time and made a lot of close friends that I still keep in touch with. A lot of academic freedom and yet the traditional written work was still enjoyable, although my university degree may shed some light on why I found the written work enjoyable!
What are you doing now?
I currently study English Literature and Language at the University of Glasgow. I am just about to progress onto junior honours for English Language.
How did the College prepare you for what you’re doing now?
I finished my A-levels at my old school but instead of immediately going to university like the majority of my school friends did, I went to college for two years. So I would say that the college prepared me by giving me the time I needed to grow up and mature before I left for university. I grew as a musician, my music theory improved and I learned how to properly format and present my work at higher academic levels. A boring answer but this is what the college helped me with!
What is the most enjoyable part of your course?
This is a difficult choice. All of my second year was brilliant, particularly the opportunity and encouragement for us as students to start writing our own music with the opportunity to perform it live at Bootleggers.
The first ever college gig at the end of 2014 was definitely enjoyable, it gave us a taste of what was to come throughout the course.
However, it may be cliché but I loved the whole course, I would happily re-live my time at college.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
In the future I'd like to study for a Masters and a PhD in English language with a view to become a researcher/academic at university level somewhere in the U.K. I'm not ruling out Glasgow as the university that I'd study at post-graduate level but I would eventually like to return to England or even pursue a career (although somewhat unlikely) working for the BBC World Service in Asia or North Africa.
Travelling wise I'd like to see Barcelona again or France!
Would you recommend studying at Kendal College (and why)?
Absolutely. I had a fantastic time in Kendal. The town itself is lovely, the college, tutors, course curriculum and facilities are excellent. I can’t speak for main site, but the Allen building campus was brilliant for me and I miss college hugely.
If you could give one piece of advice to people considering College, what would it be?
Work hard, stay hydrated and always ask questions.
