Why did you choose to study at QMU and what attracted you to the course?
Having already developed an interest in theatre and filmmaking, I wanted a course that would strengthen both my creative and strategic skills. The MSc in Digital Campaigning and Content Creation stood out because it combined practical filmmaking with content strategy, marketing and audience engagement. I knew these were skills that would not only help me create compelling work but also understand how to successfully promote and distribute it.
As a freelancer working in theatre and film, understanding marketing is just as important as making the work itself. The course gave me insight into how audiences discover productions, how campaigns are built, and how digital storytelling can support theatre, which has become invaluable in my career.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
I really enjoyed how practical the course was. Rather than studying only theory, we were constantly creating, collaborating, and experimenting with different forms of digital content. It encouraged us to think creatively while also understanding the strategy behind our work.
Were there any particular course activities you found especially interesting?
The filmmaking projects were definitely a highlight. Throughout the course, I wrote, directed and produced several fictional short films, including Deprive, A Beat Within and Painting the Mind's Canvas. These projects taught me every stage of production, from concept development and pre-production planning through to filming, editing and post-production.
Beyond developing my filmmaking skills, these projects strengthened my storytelling, collaboration and project management abilities.
How did your lecturers support your learning?
The lecturers created a really supportive environment where we were encouraged to experiment creatively while receiving constructive feedback. They were approachable and always willing to discuss ideas, helping us refine both our practical work and our understanding of digital communications.
What challenges did you face with the course and/or university life? How did you overcome them?
Balancing coursework with part-time work and creative projects was sometimes challenging, particularly because many assignments involved collaborative productions with tight deadlines.
I learnt how to manage my time effectively, communicate clearly within teams and break larger projects into manageable stages. Those organisational skills have continued to benefit me in my professional theatre career, where juggling multiple productions and deadlines is part of everyday life.
Did you take part in a placement as part of your course and if so, can you tell me a little about that experience?
I took part in the QMU Santander Employability and Leadership Scheme, which helped me secure an Assistant Director role on at A Play, A Pie and A Pint. The grant allowed me to attend rehearsals full-time, making the opportunity financially accessible. It became an important stepping stone into Scotland's professional theatre industry and gave me invaluable experience working within a producing theatre.
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in this course?
Take every opportunity the course offers, both inside and outside the classroom. Build a portfolio, collaborate with classmates and don't be afraid to try different creative roles. The practical experience is just as valuable as the academic learning, and the skills you gain are incredibly transferable across creative industries.
Did you join any schemes or initiatives to enhance your learning and development?
I worked as a Student Champion through QMU's Students as Partners initiative. In this role, I collaborated with both staff and students on projects designed to enhance the student experience at QMU. It strengthened my communication, leadership and teamwork skills while giving me valuable experience working with different stakeholders.
Which University services did you use to support you through your university journey, and how did they help you?
The Careers and Employability Service was incredibly helpful throughout my time at QMU. They supported me in developing my CV, preparing job applications and exploring career opportunities within the creative industries. I also benefited from the Santander Employability and Leadership Scheme, which helped me gain valuable industry experience and opened the door to my first professional Assistant Director role.
What's your top tip for making the most of being a student?
Say yes to opportunities beyond your coursework. Whether that's volunteering, taking on leadership roles, networking or joining employability programmes, those experiences can be just as valuable as your degree and often open unexpected doors.
What was the most valuable lesson that you learned at university?
That creativity and strategy go hand in hand. Learning how to create great content is important, but understanding how to reach audiences, communicate your message and build engagement is what allows creative work to have a real impact.
Can you tell us about your life post-graduation (your career path, notable achievements, etc.)?
Since graduating, I've been working professionally across theatre and film as a director, writer and performer.
I've directed a number of independent productions across Scotland, including work presented at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Gateway Writing Festival. I've also worked as Assistant Director at the Royal Lyceum Theatre on The Mountaintop and performed in Damngerous, a short film that was selected for the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival.
In 2025, I was honoured to be shortlisted for the Development Award at the and was selected as one of the recipients of the Scottish Emerging Theatre Awards, recognising my work as an emerging theatre director. Most recently, I'm directing .
You can read more about my work on .
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