Radio Ambitions Take Shape for Ryan

Progressing from St Columbus’ College in Portaferry, Ryan Smyth (18), had considered several different pathways before settling on Creative Media Production and Technology at SERC.

Ryan said, “I was originally looking at childcare, or hospitality and catering courses at SERC.   At the time of my application, I was also interested in photography, so I looked that up and found the Level 3 Creative Media Production & Technology course, which included photography."   

He added, “I originally applied for the Level 3 but was advised to do the one year Level 2 first.  In retrospect, the Level 2 gave me a good foundation for progression, and I was able to hit the ground running when I started the Level 3.

He continued, “The application process at SERC was very straightforward and for me it meant applying online and uploading my results before starting the course.   I knew a bit about the College from my brother who had come to SERC to do engineering, so I pretty much knew what to expect."

“For my end of year project, myself, and a couple of my classmates, planned, recorded, edited, and produced a podcast series called World’s End Podcast which was uploaded to Spotify and YouTube every Wednesday.   It’s essentially chat about pretty much any topic which grabs our interest."

“I have really enjoyed the whole side of getting into the studio to record. We record every Tuesday, and it starts with the three of us getting together to discuss the topics that are of interest to us.  We also look at questions or topics that are trending in the media and then see how we could respond and take it from there.   If it piques our interest, then it is something to consider for the podcast.”

He explained, “It was all a learning curve as to how you produce a podcast and then put it out there for people to access, but we have all really enjoyed the process and the results.  The course has a very practical element which is a great way to learn and develop skills if you are hands on and like to learn and progress in this way. The tutors are great – very knowledgeable and supportive - and there is a great atmosphere in the class as we work together on different projects.”

Speaking passionately about the course Ryan said, “If you are interested in any aspect of the media then this is a great course to consider.   I was originally interested only in photography (check out Photography By Ryan on Facebook and Instagram), but I have learnt so much more.   The course is also a real confidence builder - we are all out and about every day, talking to people, recording and filming so you have to put yourself out of your comfort zone.   You build on this as the year goes on and will be amazed at what you can do and what you have achieved by the end of the year.”

Ryan concluded, “I have applied to both Ulster University and Queen’s University Belfast to study Broadcast Production and Journalism as my ambition is to work in radio journalism.”

Apply now for media courses commencing September 2023.