International Student Ambassador Irfan loves studying television production. He shares why doing a creative course in Portsmouth was the right choice for him.
My Name is Irfan Karim and I am a second year student studying Television Production at the Â鶹ÉçÇø. As an individual who loves technology and cameras, I will take you through why I chose this course and most importantly, why in Portsmouth.
As someone who loves being hands on, and taking on challenges and doing practical things, all together with the ability to travel, explore, play around with cameras and be in the universe of broadcasting and TV, I was able to find a course that does just that!
Studying Television Production at the Â鶹ÉçÇø offers me an immersive, hands-on experience that provides students like myself and others a wide range of practical skills, including working with cameras, vision mixers, studios, and high-end technical equipment. The curriculum is designed to provide real-world experience, from creating TV shows, podcasts, and documentaries to developing professional showreels. As well as thinking out of the box and generating new ideas for a show or project, I thought that was a good fit for me.
The modules and academics provide immense support and dedication towards developing you and helping you throughout the journey. Modules include podcasting, TV format live, post production, creative storytelling and much more. I gained experience as well as learned the different roles in the TV industry. From vision mixing, to camera operating to sound and floor managing. It gave me a real feel of how the industry works and requires me to be multiskilled.
A typical day would involve seminars, TV studio sessions, editing sessions and group meetings. Because everything is practical and hands on, the experience is immersive and very different from most typical traditional courses in my opinion. No writing, no books, no boring lecture notes, and most importantly, no written exams!
Yes, you read that right, no written exams! Because everything is practical, your exams include making TV shows, documentaries and editing based on a script as well as courseworks like presentations and group tasks. This means everything is hands on and gives you experience and a feel of how it is outside of university. This played a major part as to why I chose Portsmouth to study this course.
Additionally, as students, we can visit broadcasting companies, gaining insights into the industry's inner workings and networking with professionals. The course also includes an optional placement year, offering invaluable real-world experience and enhancing employability.
The University extensive career and CV advice, helping students navigate their career paths. Opportunities for gaining experience through part-time work are also available, further enriching the educational experience. I have been able to work alongside final year project students for Portsmouth Football Club, game shows and also volunteer for live streaming the graduation ceremonies at the University.
When I was looking to do a placement year, the Creative Careers department ensured I had all the skills and advice I needed. For example, I was able to send my CV and cover letter for amendments and expert advice before submitting an application, something that goes a long way and isn’t very common elsewhere.
As an international student from Kenya, I was unsure whether this choice was the right one or not. After being part of this experience, together with seeing the vibrance, community oriented and scenery of the city, and the comprehensive approach, I don’t regret my choice. I feel this has equipped me with the skills and experience needed to succeed in the competitive field of television production when I graduate, making the Â鶹ÉçÇø my ideal choice as an aspiring media professional