Jess Kirton

"I have a BA in TV production from a different university, but I needed further experience to focus my qualifications and give me more skills. I was looking at journalism courses, specifically one with the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) qualification. I had a choice between Sunderland and another university, but decided Sunderland was the better option because it employs practising journalists and the graduate case studies I'd read were really encouraging. I also chose Sunderland because it could give me all the relevant experience I'd need to land my dream job.

The lecturers really made the experience at Sunderland stand out. The course wouldn't be what it is without their commitment and the unique experiences they share and skills they offer. The access I had to work placements was also hugely beneficial, as the University has a partnership with Monkwearmouth Football Academy. It was through this placement that I got real-world experience of making promotional videos, which is pretty much 99% of what I do now in my job.

I'm now a videographer for Rangers FC, and my job is everything I wanted it to be. No day is the same; I can spend a day full of editing, filming, travelling, or even hanging out with Steven Gerrard, which is fantastic and surreal.

I'd absolutely recommend the University of Sunderland to other students; if you want to do a journalism course, I couldn't recommend a better place for the facilities or staff. It’s more of a lifestyle than a course because of how engaging it is. I'd advise future students to take advantage of as many opportunities as you can – don’t just expect to get a good grade and a good job. The course gives you everything you need but the onus to make it all come together is on you.

I loved my time at Sunderland and I'd do it all over again! It was a great experience and invaluable for me as a way of getting my dream job."