Find yourself with your head always in a book? Scribbling down ideas for your next big writing project? What if you could use your passion to pen a new future for yourself with Burnley College University Courses?
We spoke to five students currently studying BA (Hons) in English and Creative Writing at BCUC to find out how they’re making the most of their ambitions with degree-level study right here in Burnley.
For Paul Prescott, 36, and Lorna Nicholson, 28, both from Burnley, major life changes unlocked an opportunity to re-evaluate their career plans and rediscover their love of literature.
Lorna explained:
“I’ve always had a very creative outlook on life. After I was made redundant, rather than looking for another job straight away, I decided I wanted to try something new – to challenge myself by returning to learning.”
Paul shared:
“During the COVID-19 lockdown, I was struggling to find things to keep myself occupied. With lots of free time, I found myself reading and writing creatively again.
“I’d always enjoyed that side of my time at college.
“Starting a degree meant that instead of going back to a typical 9-5 job, I could keep learning and growing – using my new skills to better myself and make a difference to my life.
English and Creative Writing is an excitingly interdisciplinary degree, which final year student Dwayne Connery, 24, from Burnley, says is what has made his time at BCUC so special:
“I progressed to BCUC after completing Level 3 Creative Digital Media at Burnley College.
“I very much came into this degree wanting to be a writer as I feel that’s where my strengths lie, but what surprised me is just how much I’ve enjoyed the literary theory we’ve explored.
“Learning about philosophy, how psychology impacts writing and how we can take feminist approaches to texts has been fascinating. It’s also massively improved my analytical skills and taught me a lot about my voice as a writer.”
The wrap-around support offered by BCUC makes it a unique learning environment, with fantastic opportunities to gain valuable work experience that boosts career prospects.
Paul completed placements at Northern Life Magazine during his degree alongside fellow student Tricia Mares, 56, from Colne. Tricia reflected:
“It was so exciting to see my work in such a popular publication.
“Working with a magazine editor in a bustling newsroom is very different to writing essays in the classroom, so it was an excellent learning experience.”
Lorna’s placement was at the Whitaker Museum in Rossendale, while Dwayne was placed at the Howarth Art Gallery. Both explored a different side to the literary world and the unique career possibilities that their degree can open up.
Lorna shared:
“Being in the heritage space was such a nice change of pace.
“I learnt so much about curation, object handling and mixed media while working at the museum.
“Talking to members of the public about the artwork was also a huge boost to my confidence and a great chance to showcase my knowledge.”
Daisy Oldfield, 22, from Rossendale, is another English and Creative writing degree student, with dreams of becoming a screenwriter:
“I wrote a script for a psychology thriller feature film for my dissertation project. I’d love to potentially see it in cinemas one day!
Tricia’s BCUC journey has completely transformed her vision for what comes next:
“When I started my course I was planning on retiring and just writing in my free time, but now that’s completely changed.
“I’m progressing onto a TESOL course that will enable me to teach English abroad.
This talented group of learners have ambitious plans for their future, and are ready to put their expertise to the test with their next steps.
Tricia added:
“For anyone considering the English and Creative Writing degree, I’d say don’t hesitate – just do it! The support you get from the tutors is amazing and gives you the confidence in your abilities you need to be able to thrive.”
Ready to discover the power of ‘WHAT IF’ with Burnley College University Courses?
