I’m Yuelin Yang, a first-year student from China. I chose BA Cultural, Creative and Media Industries (CCMI) because I’m passionate about performing arts, films, media and literature. Throughout the course unit, I gained a lot of practical skills like creative problem-solving, research, project management, market analysis, and entrepreneurship. Also, I’m developing critical skills in solving problems. Manchester, as a city, is full of creativity and innovation, with lots of museums, libraries, and art galleries for us to visit, making it the perfect place to explore those creative industries. The University of Manchester has an outstanding academic reputation, which offers a great balance of theory and practice. University of Manchester is an inclusive place, with professors and students from all over the world. As an international student, I felt warmth and happiness here.

In the first year, I learned some basic skills and theories of cultural production. All CCMI students explored different industries and strategies, and we had some field trips to visit libraries and galleries to apply theories to practice. In the second year, I will develop critical thinking skills and tailor my studies by choosing specialised topics of interest. In the final year, I can either do a research project or a practical project. In addition to the core modules, I can pick extra ones from across the School of Arts, Languages, and Cultures. I took Culture as Industry and Researching the Creative Industries as two compulsory courses last semester. I’m taking Creative Work and Arts and Social-Economic Development as compulsory courses. History of Data and Firm and Management in Comparative Perspective are my optional courses.

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, and tutorials, which are quite useful to me. I spend approximately 12 hours a week in study sessions, and after class, I usually spend 2-3 hours a day in independent study. During those hours, I need to do a lecture recap and prepare for the seminar. Staff support is excellent, and I enjoy all the professors I’ve met. They are kind and easygoing, and I could talk with them like friends. Also, everyone has a personal tutor, and they offer us one-to-one meetings to guide us through their academic journey.

Living and studying in Manchester is an incredible experience. There are many opportunities for students. The university provides voluntary work for students. I joined ‘Big Volunteer Day’, ‘Once a Month’, ‘Purplewave’, and ‘Pen Pal’. I’ve made lots of friends from different backgrounds by engaging in those activities. Also, students have the chance to study abroad during the summer break, which is a good opportunity for us to learn about different cultures. In terms of career opportunities, the university provides some part-time jobs and internships for students, and also, we could join the Careers Fair to find our ideal job.

My advice to offer holders is to make the most of the resources and opportunities available at the University of Manchester. Attend guest lectures, join societies, and network with industry professionals. Manchester is a city that thrives on creativity, so please immerse yourself in its culture and let it inspire you. The most important is that don’t be afraid to explore different areas of the creative industries – the course is designed to help you discover your passions and build a career that aligns with them.

Studying Cultural, Creative and Media Industries at the University of Manchester has been an enriching and transformative experience. The course’s structure, the city’s vibrant cultural scene, and the support from staffs have all contributed to making my time here unforgettable. If you’re passionate about creativity and culture, this course is the perfect choice!

Written by Yuelin, a 1st year BA Cultural, Creative and Media Industries student

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