Jaydon – FdA Film, Media and Photography

Name: Jaydon

Hometown: Redruth

Course: FdA Film, Media and Photography

Next Steps: BA (Hons) top-up degree in Creative Media Production

My Story

Media-minded Jaydon began his journey with an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Creative Media and Photography, before progressing onto the degree. He has just completed his second year of the FdA in Film, Media and Photography at the University Centre, and is preparing to progress onto the BA (Hons) Creative Media Production top-up in September.

Reflecting on his journey so far, he explains that what he has enjoyed most about the course is the creative freedom it offers: “I’ve enjoyed the creative freedom of the course, you get given projects, but you can do pretty much anything you want with them,” he says. This flexibility has allowed him to explore his interests through both creating his own short films and analysing iconic works such as Blade Runner. “You can go wherever your interest takes you with it, so it’s pretty cool.”

For Jaydon, being part of a smaller class has been a real advantage. He feels that the support from lecturers has made a big difference to his learning experience.

“I had quite a small class this year which I actually thought worked in my favour because we got more one-on-one time with the lecturers, and it does feel like they really care about you as well,” he reflects. “They give you all the equipment you need, and you never feel like you’re alone in the course.”

One of the highlights of the year for Jaydon was a photography project, of which the course gave him the freedom to approach it in his own way. “We could do anything we want, and I went down with my friends to the beach, we went fishing and I just brought my camera along and it felt really natural and fun,” he recalls. The project culminated in an exhibition at Grays Wharf in Penryn.

Jaydon finished the year with a Merit, an achievement he is proud of, particularly given the personal challenges he faced during his studies: “I finished with a Merit which I’m happy with, I feel like I could have done better, but I had personal things going on in that year. But next year is my year, I’m going to get that Distinction.”

Deciding to stay in Cornwall to complete his degree was an important choice for Jaydon. He feels rooted in the local area and values the stability of remaining close to his support network. “I’ve sort of built up such a life down here now and it would be hard to move away from my friends and family. I’ve got my own place, and the University Centre is just up the road for me, so it’s a lot easier than travelling further afield for university.” He also recognises how valuable it is to have opportunities for creative study available locally. “In Cornwall there’s not many options… it’s good to have those options in Cornwall because Cornwall needs a bit more.”

Looking ahead, Jaydon is excited about continuing to develop his skills and is keen to encourage others considering the course to make thoughtful choices. “Just take your time, don’t rush into anything and make sure you’re doing what you want to do. And then just come and speak to staff as well, everyone here is so friendly.”