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Why media production was the right choice for me!

My reflection on my course as a second year.

As a second-year Media Production student, I’ve had the chance to reflect on the growth and challenges I’ve experienced over the past couple of years. It’s been a lot of learning, experimenting, and discovering what I’m truly passionate about within the world of media production.

When I first started university, I came in with a general interest in media due to doing it for a levels but wasn’t sure which specific aspect I wanted to focus on. Media production seemed like the perfect choice for a course as that would allow me to explore different areas, from filmmaking to marketing. The initial excitement was palpable, but I also felt a lot of pressure to figure out where I belonged within such a vast field.

My first year was all about discovering the basics understanding the theory behind media production, learning the technical skills, and experimenting with different formats. I developed in editing, shooting short films, and even exploring the world of podcasts. It was an overwhelming mix of new software, techniques, and concepts, but it was all incredibly rewarding. I remember feeling proud of every project I completed, no matter how small, because each one taught me something new.

Moving on to my second year, and I’ve found that my confidence has grown significantly. The transition from theory heavy assignments to more hands-on, practical work has allowed me to get a deeper understanding of the production process. I’ve gained a much clearer sense of direction, and I’m starting to hone in on the areas that excite me most. For instance, I’ve developed a real passion for editing and social media marketing which will only continue to grow through my chosen option of the social media marketing module.

On the other hand, my second year hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing the demands of multiple projects, tight deadlines, and the pressure to produce high-quality work has been exhausting at times. There are moments when self-doubt creeps in, and I question whether I’m good enough or on the right track. It’s hard not to compare my work to that of my peers, especially with the visible success of others on social media. But through these challenges, I’ve learned the importance of persistence, patience, and not being too hard on myself. The creative process is not linear , and it’s okay not to have everything figured out just yet.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in my second year is the importance of collaboration. Working with classmates who bring different skills and perspectives to the table has enriched my projects in ways I never expected. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about coming together as a team to create something larger than the sum of its parts. It’s not just about creating great media, but about learning how to communicate, compromise, and support each other in a shared vision.

Looking ahead, I’m excited about what the rest of my degree will bring. I feel more equipped to navigate the challenges of media production, and I’m eager to explore new technologies, software, and media formats. With one foot firmly planted in the present and another looking to the future, I can’t wait to continue pushing myself, experimenting, and growing in this dynamic field.

Written by Ellen Faulkner.