My Postgraduate Journey

In November 2022, I graduated with my bachelor’s degree from York St John University. A year later, I decided to return for my master’s degree to further my career options and skillset! In this blog, I will take you through my postgraduate journey, sharing the motivations that drove me, the transition from my bachelor’s to my master’s degree, the challenges I encountered along the way, and the progress I’ve made throughout this experience.

Motivation

Early into my alumni, I realised I wouldn’t be pursuing a career in the subject I had previously studied. I felt the field was too competitive, and I had lost passion for the subject. I tried to shift to a different area in the same industry, but without relevant experience, I was unable to get a full-time job. This is when I started looking for a postgraduate opportunity that could grant me the expertise I need to make this career change.

I researched university courses to find something that would fit my needs. I wanted to find a course that would allow me the creative freedom to expand my skillset and gain the knowledge I need for my future career. After researching, I found several courses, one being the MA Media Production course at York St John. I started to lean towards returning to YSJ because I already know how amazing the campus, city, and student services are. It’s all familiar to me and I felt, when going onto a postgraduate course, familiar would be helpful. I didn’t want to start over somewhere new just for a year.

Although, the tipping point for finalising YSJ was the opportunity for a scholarship. The university offers various scholarships for returning students all of which grant you a discount on tuition fees. When returning for my master’s, I was awarded a progression scholarship which granted me 35% off my tuition fee! This was a level of financial support that I would not have gotten anywhere else. This made returning to YSJ a no-brainer!

Transition

The transition from bachelor’s to master’s degree learning was very clear. Of course, these changes will differ for every course, but the higher level of freedom, independence, and trust is universal. Off the bat, I was expected to have a project plan and a clear idea of its trajectory. My tutors gave me the room and resources to create a production timeline for which I could set my own deadlines. It didn’t take long for me to realise my assignments were primarily led by me, not my tutors. My tutors were not necessarily there to teach but to guide, nurture, and offer support on my independent work. Because of this, I was expected to have a lot of confidence in my work and the ability to work efficiently and independently. While this can sound intense, the workload becomes a lot easier when leading the project yourself rather than by brief like on a bachelor’s course.

Challenges

Postgraduate learning presented me with a few challenges. Most were simpler or more digestible difficulties like making new friends. I found most of the student community was a lot younger than me and generally had a different mindset because of this. I had trouble finding clubs and societies to join. Most friendships I made during my postgraduate studies were through Bumble BFF, Meet Up, or even online dating apps.

I also had a few maintenance issues like trying to find accommodation. Since I applied for my course after the university accommodation closing date, I was unable to get accommodation through YSJ. Most student houses were already reserved and whatever was left were reluctant to take postgraduate students. Luckily, I was able to find a place, but if you’re thinking of returning for a postgraduate degree, I recommend looking at accommodation as early as possible to ensure that you find a place that fits your needs.

For me, the biggest challenge was adapting to independent working. I found adjusting to this ethic difficult at first but, with time and practice, I became a lot more confident in my talents and abilities. By working towards the goal of independence, I have gained new mindset skills like time management, discipline, and even a more positive self-image!

Progress

Due to the creative freedom offered, during my postgraduate learning, I feel I have achieved a level of potential I never expected I could have! Within a year, I have mastered new creative media, started my own independent business, and developed a thriving social media campaign all on my own. I never expected I was capable of so much! With the support of the university, I have discovered my self ambitions and tenacity. Now, I have a better understanding of my future career trajectory and what I can achieve. I feel more confident in myself, my independent working, and experience with networking.