Cheryl Buchan

Cheryl Buchan, 39, credits North East Scotland College with helping her find her meaning in life. The HNC in Media, Analysis and Production course not only gave her the skills she needed to become a travel reporter on Northsound, but also helped her to build her confidence and a sense of purpose.

She said, “​I was at a point in my life where I was lost, I felt I was going nowhere and didn’t serve a purpose. My GP told me that I should be doing something I loved; something creative or artistic. I called NESCol and the receptionist was so nice, she took time to browse courses with me and she recommended Creative Media – that was it from there! “

Over the two years following her phone call to NESCol, Cheryl completed an NC in Creative media and an HNC in Media Analysis & Production and the experience is one she loved from start to finish.

“The lecturers are genuine professionals and have endless experience within the industry. They also come from quite impressive backgrounds which is inspiring. Also, I must say, the college doesn’t hold back when it comes to buying the best equipment – it’s actually as good as the equipment I work with now.”

During the course, Cheryl and her classmates had opportunities to work in the City Campus’ creative media facilities, including the radio station, TV studio and Photography studio, gaining skills through hands-on experience. When asked what her highlight on the course was, she couldn’t pinpoint one thing:

“Working in the Radio Suite allowed me to be expressive with my voice – I’ve always had a loud voice so for the first time it was actually useful! Also, with radio, you can focus on topics that inspire people and I’m passionate about that. Film Making was fun too, I loved making documentaries and it was a bonus that I was free to create what I wanted. Oh, and Photography that was an artistic unit… I think it would be quicker if I just said “I liked everything about the course!””

After excelling on the course, and being able to develop personally and professionally, Cheryl was recommended by her lecturer Evelyn for a position as a Travel Reporter at Northsound. After shadowing the presenters and working on demos, she secured the job.

“I was starstruck at first, and if I’m honest, I still am at times – but I’ve never felt more at home in a job. Going to college was absolutely the best thing I did.

“​If you are in any doubt that you’re not good enough, clever enough or just that you could never be someone… you’re wrong. This course saved my life. I felt like a nobody before; I was miserable and desperately seeking the meaning of life. But I have it now: be creative and do everything in your power to be expressive – you have one thing that no one else does, and that’s the power to be you.”