I believe that film is the ultimate modern form of self-expression and communication.

Film has changed my outlook on the world and has given me a way of exploring and sharing ideas. Over the past few years my interest in film has blossomed and become something I hope to pursue as a career. My appreciation of film began when I joined a film club in secondary school; by discussing my growing interest in film I realised that it was not just a recreational activity but would play a significant role in my life. My aspirations started to become reality when I was nominated for Film Education's Young Film Critic of the Year Award and this initial analytical approach to film fuelled a desire to put theory into practice. Through my A Level studies and other research I now look at films in a way that enhances my approach to practical film-making - I realise the need for theoretical as well as practical skills in becoming an innovative and successful film maker and I look forward to developing both academic knowledge and creative skills on a degree course. My A Level Film Studies course has provided me with a wider context and knowledge of film. I have carried out a research project on Pasolini and shock cinema, as well as studying the institutional production, textual form and audience reception of wide range of films - from Gun Crazy to Tsotsi. In Media Studies I have created a film opening and short film, learning about the use of narrative, genre conventions and developing technical skills such as editing on Final Cut and Adobe Premiere. I've also experimented with film in my A Level Art coursework on the theme of voyeurism. I have enjoyed all three subjects, as well as AS Level English Literature which I took last year, and found them helpfully complementary in the ideas and skills they have involved. Alongside my A Levels, I am a member of the College's Media Academy which produces professional work for external clients. I have helped with the practical and creative process for promotional and corporate films as well as live event filming. Earlier this year I handled a "responsible drinking" film for the local council from pre to post production. This developed my confidence in managing a team in a diplomatic yet decisive fashion and the experience has helped me evolve into a more professional and industry aware individual. My work on the college's radio station, as producer and head presenter, also gained me the valuable offer of visiting BBC Radio Somerset for the day to see how a professional station operates. I have also engaged in and sought out opportunities outside of college. Gaining a place on the BFIfunded Film Club Talent Development scheme has led to me reporting on premieres and I look forward to promised press junkets and talks with industry professionals. I have also had reviews and articles published on film websites and in local newspapers as well as my own blog. I've worked with a production company called Film Tank where I was responsible for elements of production such as boom operation and helping to set up equipment. Experience of the film industry has intensified my determination to work in it. Outside of college, my recreational activities include drawing, photography and going to the cinema. I also relish carrying out my own research and spend hours exploring information and reading up on a wide range of films. I am also an avid reader of Empire and Little White Lies. I have maintained part-time jobs for the duration of my teenage years, which has taught me the value of "hard graft". I understand that, to be successful, I have to work for it and this is the mentality I will apply to my degree studies. I am a committed and highly motivated student, dedicated, zealous and creative, and will continue to work in the same way on a degree course. Although I'm an independent learner I enjoy working with others and really look forward to immersing myself in all aspects of university life.