Crafting Creativity: My Role in the Leeds Beckett Anthology Project

Tell us a bit about yourself and what drew you to Leeds Beckett, and your chosen subject area

I was drawn to Leeds Beckett because of its reputation for having an outstanding faculty team within the Humanities and Social Sciences school, where the teaching staff comprises authors, poets, and literature critics. I also had friends studying at Leeds Beckett, and their positive experiences convinced me to pursue further education here. I chose English with Creative Writing not only because of my love for literature and writing but also for the broad range of modules available. These ranged from Postcolonial Literature to Experimental Writing and work-related modules, which I knew would improve my employability and soft skills. The degree equipped me with valuable skills such as research, communication, and writing, allowing me to enter the workforce or pursue further education with confidence.

Can you tell us about the recent project you worked on where you created an anthology? What was your role? How did the project link to your studies?

In May 2023, I was given the opportunity by my Course Director, Dr. Michael Lee, to oversee the creation of our 2024 Graduating Class Anthology, named 'Incongruous.' My responsibilities included overseeing submissions, coordinating with the editorial and graphic art teams, and composing and publishing the anthology. I successfully delivered a high-quality product in May 2024 and hosted a launch event with students, family members, and faculty to showcase the creative talents of our university community.

How do you think the experience of working on this project will help you in your future career?

Before completing this project, I had little experience in solo-managing a team in a professional environment. Leading a team of four editors, two graphic designers, and the students who submitted work, I organized meetings, set deadlines, managed a budget, and supported the team to complete the anthology over the last eight months. My work in the Careers Department gave me a unique understanding of the complexities of employability, and I knew this project would enhance my skillset. It was also a great opportunity for me to support my peers by encouraging them to apply their creative skills, helping them to progress into future careers with confidence. Ultimately, this project has strengthened my leadership and teamwork skills, which I can confidently apply in my future roles.

What advice would you give someone thinking about studying your course?

My advice to someone considering studying English with Creative Writing is to get involved as much as possible. This could be participating in seminar discussions, attending society events, or working within the university. There have been numerous opportunities, such as poetry events, trips to ITV, and the anthology project to name a few examples. The network at Leeds Beckett is outstanding, including the teaching staff and services like the Careers team and Students' Union. New opportunities are always available that can enhance both your social life and practical skills. I would recommend utilizing the teaching staff's knowledge, they are incredibly supportive academically and personally. My time at Leeds Beckett felt like a true community, with everyone helping each other succeed, which is what makes this course unique.