Heather Tulloch

Marketing, Advertising and PR BA (Hons)

Heather initially planned to attend another university but found a better fit at BCU through Clearing, where she pursued a degree in Marketing, Advertising, and PR. Her time at BCU provided valuable learning experiences, supportive lecturers and opportunities for internships. Since graduating, Heather has founded her own branding business, with aspirations to expand and create a hub for local creatives in Birmingham. 

“I always wanted to go University, but I’d originally been accepted to another university which I felt was a little too far out for me. So, I looked into Clearing and found BCU with all the courses that they offered. I stumbled upon the Marketing, Advertising and PR course. Once I decided I wanted to go to BCU, everything was smooth sailing from there.

I loved studying at BCU. Each year, I learned a lot about Marketing, Advertising and PR principles across the board. The lecturers were supportive and encouraging every semester. It also gave me the opportunity to meet different people from different backgrounds across the world.

I had several internships whilst studying, including two weeks at leading agency McCann and at recruitment agency, Ideal Staff, whilst studying for my degree.

Now, I’m the Founder and Creative Director of a branding business called Image Creative BHX. I've been doing this officially for three years. We're still in the early stages of the business, but a typical day for me includes planning and creating content for social media platforms, taking meetings and prospecting potential clients, connecting with team members, growing my brand and going to networking events.

Since graduating from BCU, my journey has been both exciting and challenging, filled with valuable learning experiences. I started at an agency based in Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham, where I was an SEO Executive.

Once Covid hit, I went freelance and started providing social media services and consultations, before working as a Marketing Manager for a couple of companies on contract before going full-time with my business.

BCU has been pivotal in shaping my career by applying real-world solutions and working collaboratively. Additionally, opportunities like placements, live projects, and interactions with industry professionals during my studies gave me valuable insights and a head start in building professional connections.

It also instilled a passion for continuous learning, which aligns with my long-term goal of advancing within my field and taking on leadership roles.

What’s been most challenging for me is adapting to the fast-paced, results-driven nature of the workplace, where expectations and responsibilities are higher.

However, BCU Lecturers prepare you for those circumstances by sharing some of their own experiences, and their constructive criticism helped me identify areas for improvement and adapt quickly to the demands of my role, allowing me to develop a layer of thick skin. I’ve found having mentors has been great for that too, so you don't feel alone.

My proudest achievement since graduating from university has been starting my business, as it took a lot of courage and strength. I'm a big lover of all things creative, and I'm a big believer in manifesting your goals. So, I wanted to create a space where I could celebrate these things, plus more.

Recently, I came back to BCU to discuss my freelancing experience in a Q& A style format, which was a full-circle moment.

In the future, I plan to scale up my business and have a central hub based in Birmingham, bringing local creatives together.

My advice to current BCU students is to embrace every opportunity for growth and learning. Leverage the network you’ve built during your time at university, as connections can open unexpected doors.

Stay true to yourself, and if something doesn't align with your values and beliefs, don't go along with it.

I AM BCU means unity and coming together, especially in hard times.”