Sam Lovesey

Digital Media Computing - BSc (Hons)

Sam was certain university was the right path for him, but wasn’t so sure on what to study. He researched potential courses online, and was attracted to the Digital Media Computing course at Birmingham City University. After attending an Open Day, Sam was confident it was the right place for him. The course offered modern facilities and a unique opportunity to explore creative and logical thinking. Studying at BCU has helped Sam gain valuable work experience, and fill his CV with desirable skills.

“I was the first in my family to go to university, so when I started my course I had no real preconception of what it would be like. I love being a university student. I can’t imagine how different I would be if I hadn’t chosen BCU, or had such fulfilling experiences.

I’m most proud of putting myself out there and seizing every opportunity I’m presented with. The highlights include a part-time job as a Web and Digital Assistant in the ADM Faculty, and a year-long placement in the CEBE Marketing team, as a Faculty Web and Content Assistant. Both roles have allowed me to gain valuable industry work experience closely linked to my course. Thanks to these opportunities, I have been able to enhance my CV, which will allow me to progress towards my desired career path in the digital industry after graduation.

The Careers Team have been excellent during my time at BCU. I first visited them when I was applying for placements for my sandwich year. The process was simple. We scheduled a meeting, and they provided me with some great advice regarding my CV. They helped me polish and refine my CV so that it was ready for applications. Even now whilst I’m working at my placement, the team still offer first-class ongoing support. It’s so reassuring to know that someone has your back if you ever need them. They also put me in touch with a personal mentor during my second year, who was a lovely woman working for the Royal Mail. She helped with interview techniques and provided advice on job applications. I can see how this could be hugely advantageous for students, and I think it’s fantastic that the University offers this level of support.

Initially, finding a placement seemed like a daunting task. The University offers a lot of help and advice, but ultimately it is up to you to develop your application and go through the interview process. With the experience and knowledge I have gained, I know I’ll be ready the next time a job interview comes around.

Now that I’ve achieved my goal of securing a placement year, I am committed to excelling in this role and learning as much as possible. My goal for the final year of my course is to continue working hard and to graduate with a First Class Degree.

Birmingham City University has a thriving student community and everyone is very welcoming. In my first couple of years here I found my own community of friends through first-year accommodation, nights out and the Induction Hackathon. I can say without doubt that I’ve made friends for life at BCU. Thanks to my placement with the CEBE Marketing Team, and my work on the I AM BCU campaign, I have also discovered a larger community of students and staff.

Since becoming a student at Birmingham City University, I’ve changed so much. I’ve matured and gained much more confidence in myself. I’m also far more career-orientated; my entire work ethic has changed, and I strive for an element of professionalism in everything I do. My plans for after graduation are starting to feel very tangible. It’s an exciting thought to know that as BSc Digital Media Computing is such a broad and varied course, I can take my career in any direction I choose.

What I like most about being a student here at Birmingham City University are the opportunities that are available. The University is situated at the heart of a major UK city, meaning there are always interesting things going on and experiences to be had. This naturally translates to industry relevance; the University has links to a plethora of well-known companies and organisations, both locally and internationally. You really feel as though your degree is setting you up for work and life after graduation.

To me, I AM BCU means being proud and ambitious, with university serving as a medium to facilitate success, in whatever form that might take.”