I am studying Journalism – starting my third year in September – and it was suggested to me by my mother. I did Sociology, Psychology and English Literature at A-levels because I am interested in a deeper understanding of the world around me and the people who are part of it.

However, I did not know what I wanted to study after sixth form. My mum reminded me that when I was younger, I’d always pretend to be a news presenter and I loved reading newspapers as a child, so she suggested journalism. I thought about it, researched the different roles within journalism, and decided to give it a try.

My favourite part of being a student here is the people I have met thus far. I have formed friendships with so many lovely people, both on my course and externally. My lecturers are great also; my course is quite small, which has allowed me to develop a closer relationship with them and they have given me very insightful tips and advice to make the most of this time and build my future.

Eventually, I want to be an investigative journalist. I’d love to specialise in crime and potentially politics, but also create documentaries which focus on the communities who may feel ostracised from society and the mainstream media.

However, when I finish university, I’d be grateful to pursue anything within the multimedia and journalism sector. Whether that be writing for local papers, presenting on radio or even producing my own radio/tv programmes.

Being at Bedfordshire has helped me come out of my shell massively. I’d say Luton is relatively small in comparison to London (which is where I’m originally from). Living in a big city can make you feel overlooked and unstable within yourself. Moving to a smaller, more intimate town has taught me to look within myself and be confident enough to make my experience whatever I want it to be.

The University of Bedfordshire has given me a multitude of opportunities to grow as a journalist and strengthen my CV. For example, I did an interview with our Chancellor, Sarfraz Manzoor, and I was on an interview panel with the legendary Mick Harford. The University has connected me with massive media corporations like BBC Three Counties Radio, who I did a brief internship with and worked for during Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

Do not limit yourself! You’ll never know what the course is like until you actually pick it, so don’t come into university with tunnel vision. Be open minded! Don’t just look at what your parents want you to do, or what career makes the most money, or what career looks the best. Choose what truly interests you, because that is what will motivate you to wake up in the morning and continue doing it for decades.

And if you don’t know what to choose, maybe that’s a good thing because you have more freedom to do whatever you want. You are still young, so this is the best time to experiment with your life and explore new paths.