Edinburgh Napier University

Tell us a bit about yourself. 

I’m 21 and was born in Amsterdam but I grew up in the West Coast of Scotland, Ayr. I moved to Edinburgh during 2020 to start my first year of university at the age of 17.

Why did you choose to study at Edinburgh Napier University? 

Edinburgh Napier University stood out to me because of their industry connections. I remember reading about previous students working with Murrayfield and to me, that felt very exciting. I remember being surprised by the variety of courses, it felt like it had something for everyone!

What attracted you into studying your course? 

I originally started my university journey on the BA (hons) International Hospitality Management course but after a year I quickly realised it wasn’t for me. I remember meeting people in first year on the Mass Communications course and after hearing how they described the course work, especially the creative aspects, I knew I wanted to be a part of it. I was able to arrange an online meeting with the head of the department and transferred directly into second year. I feel lucky to have found a subject I am truly passionate about.  

Has your course given you any practical opportunities out-with standard teaching?

I was able to take up a work-based placement during my third year of studies. This opportunity took me to London where I did a two-week summer internship at The & Partnership. I was able to put all my learning to the test as I worked on a live brief for Argos Christmas 2023. I also attended a radio recording and still object photo shoot for another one of their clients. This was a major highlight of my university experience, proving to myself that I was almost ready for the world of work.  

Do you have any highlights of studying at Edinburgh Napier University? 

Graduation day has to be up there! It is super rewarding to see all your hard work pay off and be surrounded by all the people you have met along the way. Additionally, being awarded with the University Medal for my programme of study was a huge highlight.  

Have you faced any challenges?

Moving during the pandemic was one of the biggest challenges I faced, as did most 2024 graduates. Learning to navigate a new way of life and newfound independence while the world around was so far from normal was particularly difficult. However, I like to think it made us all a little bit more adaptable to change.  

Would you recommend the course to others? If so, why? 

Yes. It is the perfect balance of academic and practical work. I feel like it has set me up with the skills needed for a communication role. I was also given the chance to really develop my creative skills. I was able to produce a podcast for one of my final projects with help from the journalism department. I like that it felt intertwined with other disciplines such as journalism and graphic design.  

What key skills have you learned from your university experience? 

I would say most importantly people skills, wether that is living with a group of people or working together on course work. I have developed my interpersonal skills and grown more confident as a person in doing so.  

Can you sum up your student experience living in Edinburgh? 

It is hard to summarise 4 years but if I had to, I would say transformative. I have become many different versions of myself. Edinburgh is such a beautiful city to learn and grow in. There is always something to do!  

What advice would you give to anyone considering studying this course? 

This course can be very group work heavy. I would recommend trying to find people you work well with. It helps to play to a whole team's strengths and weaknesses. This is also super important skill to learn for the world of work.  

What’s next for you?

I am about to embark on a master's in creative advertising at Napier in September. I am excited to build my creative portfolio over the next year. After which I want to join the creative department of an advertising agency.