Sofia Bell
Sofia Bell
BA Arts (Hons) in Media, Moving Image and Photography
How did you find the University Centre Rotherham?
‘Through UCAS. When I was applying for universities, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do Media or Photography, so into UCAS I just put Media and Photography to see what courses did both, then this place came up and it definitely caught my attention.
I saw that University Centre Rotherham offers smaller class sizes, and I know I didn’t like the thought of big class sizes, so it seemed better suited for me.’
The University’s appeal extends beyond the local area, as evidenced by Sofia’s journey from Swindon. She cited the smaller class sizes, high-end equipment, and specialised facilities for Media and Photography degree students – including a dedicated classroom and exclusive equipment booking – as key factors in her decision.
Sofia says ‘it’s nice to have that separation between college and University students’.
Sofia Bell“Because of the smaller class sizes, you network and connect with everyone on the degree, and here you’re not a number, you are a person.”
How has the University supported you through your journey with us?
Several modules encourage students to pursue freelance work within the industry. Lecturers provide support for those facing challenges, offering opportunities to ensure successful module completion. Furthermore, when the College’s in the Group host events throughout the year they often ask if Media and Photography students can assist, providing valuable practical experience both externally and internally, with support from both the university and college.
‘We sometimes have a gap between lessons, and the tutors will come in and check on us, especially when it’s the end of the semester and deadlines are due. They are really good at supporting us and responding to any questions or queries we have, especially on Google chat.
All the tutors are all passionate about what they do, and they are all photographers and videographers outside of teaching which I think really helps us, and it gives us an insight and the experience of what the industry actually is like’
What is one of your best memories from your time with us?
At the end of the year, the students from Media and Photography get to take part in a big screening event where a piece of each student’s work from Level 3 up to Level 5 are exhibited in the Eastwood Theatre.
‘There is a dress code, there is food and drinks, and you get given an award after where you get a printed picture and a clapperboard with your name and the award on it as well as a voucher.
But it’s lovely to see the time and effort the tutors put in and how it brings us all together. They are proud to showcase what their students have done’.
Sofia Bell“University Centre Rotherham had the course I wanted, and also the creditation – like all of the courses at the University Centre, it was accredited by a top university. Degree courses here are accredited by universities such as Sheffield Hallam, Hull and Huddersfield which means I could do a course in a smaller, less daunting environment and still be accredited by a top university”
What advice would you give someone considering the course?
‘It’s a lot of work, so be prepared for it. But you aren’t alone in it, and I think that’s what differs this place from a traditional University.
Because of the smaller class sizes, you network and connect with everyone on the degree, and here you’re not a number, you are a person.’
What are your next steps?
This November, we’ll celebrate Sofia’s graduation from her course here with us at University Centre Rotherham, and we’re thrilled she’s chosen to hopefully continue her journey with us by applying for our PGCE program. Her passion for Media education signals a bright future for the next generation of students.
‘I would love to stay here and teach. But obviously that just depends on circumstances.
Teaching is going to be scary but I’m also excited, that’s why I’m sort of shadowing Ryan at the moment, to get sort of an idea of what it will be like. I finish my course in May and then my graduation will be in November’.
