Lucy Horsman

Why Teesside?

I decided to go to university as I wanted secure a good job, and learn how to be independent and live away from home. I chose Teesside University as it had the best facilities, and the location was ideal with lots of transport links. Teesside also has great industry connections, such as the BBC, who I undertook a work placement with in my first year.

Why film and TV production?

It’s something I’ve always found fascinating. I love cameras and bringing things to life. It wasn't easy to narrow down what I wanted to do after college, but I knew this was something I wanted to do as a career.

Best thing about the course?

I had access to all of the camera equipment and Mac editing suites, where I could focus on my projects. The industry links also supported my development with transitioning into the real world after completing my degree.

Tell us about the campus

The Students’ Union is a fantastic place for lunch between lectures. I did lots of volunteering with Volun-tees, winning a Silver Award, which is 80 hours of active volunteering. The library was also a lovely working space. I spent a lot of time in here, especially when undertaking my final year dissertation. I would recommend that any student use the library while they can, I do miss working there.

What about the local area?

Everyone in Middlesbrough is friendly and there are lots of things to do in the town.

What did you do outside of your studies?

I worked on the MicroBiz Academy course, which supports small start-up businesses. I then moved onto the FUEL Launchpad and won a £3,000 grant towards my business, including my current office space in the Victoria Building. The links to business support are brilliant and I would highly recommend these schemes if you are a budding entrepreneur.

What are you up to now?

I'm currently on the DigitalCity Accelerator programme, where I won a £4,000 start-up grant to support my business, Concept Media Academy Ltd. Alongside growing my business, I work four days a week as a video editor for an extensive YouTube channel with nearly 2m subscribers.

Future plans?

I’d love to run my business full-time. I want to hire someone part-time to support my company's marketing eventually, and I'd like this person to be a Teesside University graduate to ensure I support the local community.

Would you recommend Teesside University?

Definitely, the support you get is so crucial if you wish to pursue a career in film and TV, as it's such a competitive industry.

What advice would you give to others?

Stay in halls so you can meet fellow students, which will help your confidence. Join societies, volunteer as much as you can and make sure you use the resources to find opportunities. If you want to start a business, look into the FUEL programme.

Overall, enjoy your time, take part in work experience and make the most of those industry links.