My journey into the world of design

As part of my MA in Media and Culture, I had the privilege of a work placement at Chapel FM, an arts and community centre in Seacroft, Leeds. This experience allowed me to network with industry professionals and acquire new skills that significantly impacted my personal and professional growth.

One of the most transformative skills I learned was design using Canva. Before this placement, I had never explored design tools or created marketing materials. Immersing myself in the creative environment at Chapel FM, I proactively learned design techniques, which I then applied to my academic assignments, allowing me to express my creativity beyond traditional essays. This skill development has been crucial in preparing me for a career in the creative industry. 

The opportunity to showcase creativity was one of the main reasons of deciding to study an MA in Media and Culture at Leeds Beckett; the chance to move beyond traditional essays, breaking the mould and adding some unique, personal elements that truly reflect me as a student forward direction of my career aspirations within the creative industry. Arguably most important, developing these industry skills has added to the professional skills and experience required to help kickstart my career in the industry, for which I will forever be grateful.

At Chapel FM, I created marketing posters for the new ‘Soundbites Café,’ focusing on neurodivergent-friendly design elements. I researched and incorporated inclusive aspects such as appropriate background colours, font colours, and typography. Discovering fonts like ‘Dyslexie’ and ‘Open Dyslexic’ was particularly impactful, enabling me to design materials that are naturally inclusive and accessible.

Throughout my placement, I maintained a daily journal, reflecting on my progress and identifying areas for improvement. This practice was beneficial for my mental health and professional development. 

My placement experience greatly benefited my academic studies. In the Mobile Media Cultures module, I was inspired by the use of digital technologies in museums and galleries. I applied my design skills to create a potential AR experience at Kirkstall Abbey, incorporating a landing page, interactive elements, and a geo-cache-style exploration activity. This project emphasized the importance of visual education and enhanced historical learning through augmented reality. I wanted to stress the importance of visual education beyond listening and reading. Offering a visual experience, alongside their audio-trail, increases the potential for historical education of the Abbey but also increases interaction with the Abbey, its grounds and local environment from wildlife to plants.

My MA in Media and Culture has provided me with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional development. Learning new skills and gaining practical experience have opened many doors for future opportunities in the creative industry. I am immensely grateful for this journey and the creative exposure it has offered.