Millie is currently studying Journalism at Edinburgh Napier and is featured across both seasons of the podcast. She talks about choosing the right course, what to expect in first year, moving to Edinburgh to study and more. Read on to find out more about her university journey.
The Course
Tell us about why you decided to choose Napier?
I chose Napier because, first of all, it was rated the top university for journalism in the UK (The Guardian rankings), and I just loved the city when I came to visit. Having applied to four English universities I felt like Edinburgh Napier offered the best modules for me and the course being four years long was appealing to me. On top of this it was also the top rated modern university in Scotland which made me feel as though I would be educated well. Additionally, student satisfaction was higher compared to the other universities I had applied for, so I knew I would have a good "university experience".
What do you like about your course and why?
I really enjoy my course as each one of my course modules are varied and interest me in different ways. Majority of my lecturers have all worked in the industry and have expertise, so they use real life examples on how to put what I am being taught into practice. The course is very practical and I like that it is coursework based rather than exams. I feel as though the course load is a good balance and this is helped by all of the wonderful facilities made available for journalism students. I also feel like every lecture and tutorial is very well planned out.
What's your dream career/job? Is your course preparing you for that?
My dream job is to write columns in magazines or be feature writer. preferably remotely so I would be able to continue travelling. I would also like to be an editor at some point, being the editor of ENRG culture has helped to prepare me for this. The sub-editing and feature writing modules of my course have both giving me guidance on the jobs I would like to do in the future. Having worked on the "Find Your Uni" podcast I have discovered my love for podcasts and radio. The use of the podcast studio in the journalism department has helped me gain confidence and learn to work with the equipment; how to use and set it up.
Have you had the opportunity to undertake placements or study abroad opportunities on your course? Tell us about this experience.
I know there has been study abroad opportunities available but I have not applied for this , although I think it would be brilliant learning opportunity. My course does offer a placement period in third year, which I am looking forward to hearing more about.
Is there something about your industry or subject that no one is talking about enough?
I think that the mental health of journalists is not talked about enough, as we are often exposed to trauma (e.g., covering violence, disasters, or harassment online), but mental health support is scarce, especially for freelancers. With the subject, I think its not talked about enough how much you need to network with people in order to be a journalist. In a lot of ways I think its about who you know, not what you know and I think aspiring journalists must be aware of that. Also, to be a journalist, you must keep up with politics and I think its not talked about enough how aware you need to be on current and global affairs - regardless of which area of journalism you want to do.
Student Experience
Do you feel at home at ENU?
Yes I do because the support services ensure that you feel included and supported at all times. The way that the uni is split into three campus' allows each campus to have a smaller community feel and make it less daunting when you first start as a first year. The people at the uni also create this sense of community, as well as the lecturers and staff here. The uni caters for every person and this makes us all feel like we truly all belong here.
Are you involved in any sports or societies at the university?
I am involved in the Yoga and Wellbeing society which I really feel benefits my mental wellbeing and gives me a chance to meet new people who also enjoy this. I think societies are such a brilliant way of making friends and being part of a community doing something you enjoy or want to start. Its also a great way to disconnect from the stress of uni work and life and carve time out of your day to destress.
Who's your biggest cheerleader through University?
My two flat mates who are also students at Napier are my biggest supporters, we are all very close and understand each other and support each other through everything, personal and university related, they really encourage me to stay focused and take on new opportunities that I may not have without their support. Without them I would not be able to manage my time and push myself out of my comfort zone. Also my lecturers also support me in believing that I am capable and will be a promising journalist, they also teach me the skills to submit work that is to my best ability, from experts who have been in the industry for a long time. Without them I would not be able to have the motivation to pursue my dreams of being a journalist, or the knowledge and skills to do so.
What helps you through tough times at Napier? Have you used the support services?
I am yet to use them but I am aware of the services and how to get in touch if I did need to. The Wellbeing and Inclusivity service is highly rated among students and I do have some friends that have used it.
Studying in Edinburgh
What's the best thing about studying in Edinburgh?
The best thing about studying in Edinburgh is the diversity - beach, city, countryside, it just has everything. Another thing I love about the city is the nightlife, as well as the large variety of activities there is to do. It is a very student friendly city with an abundance of bars and pubs, as well as different studying facilities around the city. Because Edinburgh is a relatively small city, it is great place to make friends and connect with people - and the size of it makes it feel friendlier and more manageable, so it doesn't feel too daunting to move out of home and live in a city as a student. It also feels safe compared to many other big cities, and the people here are so friendly.
Whether you moved into student accommodation or stayed at home, how was your experience of starting university life and what advice would you give to others?
I moved into Bainfield accommodation and it was the best decision I could have made, as it is where I met my current flat mates and plenty of other friends for life. Having moved from the south of England it was a big jump to make but moving into a student accommodation made it less scary as I was surrounded with people in the same position. My advice would be if you are able to definitely move into halls as it is where you will learn life skills; cooking, cleaning, living with others and it allows you to start the journey of living alone in a setting that is not as intimidating. Starting university was daunting but it was made by the friends I met and the support from lecturers and the uni. I would advise others to come to uni with an open-mind as living with other people is difficult and different to what you are used to. I would also say to make sure you give yourself the chance of making friends by saying yes to opportunities and put yourself out there. Don't be scared and don't hold back because nobody knows you so you can be anyone you want and everyone is in the same boat!
What's one thing you'll take with you from your experience in Edinburgh/Scotland/Edinburgh Napier for the rest of your life?
One thing I will take is the open-mindedness I've learnt from living with new people and moving to a new city. I have learnt to go into everything with an open mind to peoples differences in their upbringing and to embrace everyones uniqueness as something you can learn from. I have learnt so much from the people in my life here and I will take these lessons everywhere I go. I have also learnt the importance of getting yourself out there and being seen, especially as a journalist - and to make connections and network everywhere you go. I've learnt to say yes to every opportunity as you never know where it will lead you. Scotland has taught me the beauty of culture and community, and how heartwarming it is to see people connect over their love for their country. Edinburgh Napier has taught me to put my all into every bit of work i do, as this is the work you produce. It has taught me to enjoy learning and to admit when I don't know things - as this is the only way I will learn.