When applying to university, looking at the facilities offered by different institutions was a main focus for me. As a Journalism student, I knew that I would benefit from access to professional equipment, lecturers with experience in the field and a range of events to get involved in.

Based over at Salford Quays, the University of Salford’s MediaCityUK campus ticked all of these boxes. I fell in love with the buzzing atmosphere and modern set up from my very first visit – which was way back in 2012!

Lecturers

All of my lecturers had previous employment with news organisations and elsewhere within the media, which meant that their lectures were always full of entertaining anecdotes and tried and tested advice. Switching on the TV when at home and seeing one of my lecturers presenting BBC News was a highlight! Those teaching at MediaCityUK are living proof that success within the creative industry can be achieved and the late nights spent working towards deadlines are all worth it.

Facilities

As well as professional teaching, access to high quality equipment is available too. The University provides sound and visual recording equipment, similar to that used by professionals within the industry, which can be hired for personal use or to complete assignments. There’s also a number of TV and radio studios within the University building, which boast a similar set up to the ones used by our MCUK neighbours, the BBC and ITV.

Entertainment

MediaCityUK may be a great place to study, but the evening and weekend entertainment on offer is brilliant too. There’s no excuse not to take the free 50 bus with your student card and stop by a restaurant or watch a film at the cinema.

The Lowry Theatre is based at Salford Quays too and students can be in the audience for TV shows, such as Britain’s Got Talent, The Voice and Jeremy Kyle – three that I’ve previously seen live! A variety of pop-up entertainment also appears throughout the year, from an ice skating rink to The Makers Markets.

MediaCityUK is an exciting hub full of talented individuals, both working and studying and there’s always something interesting going on. This state of the art campus is definitely one of Salford’s main highlights!