Digital Creativity Unlocked: Q&A with Finn Brown

I studied the HNC Digital Content Creation course last year and the chance to study at the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Institute of Technology as the first cohort of learners really appealed to me. I knew that I would be able to develop my skills in content creation to meet the demands of a very competitive industry.

I was amazed by the facilities and excited to get going. Everything is brand new and of an industry standard so it really helps to use equipment that we would have access to in industry.

Yes definitely, the equipment we have access to for our course is fantastic. I love the new computers and the photography equipment in particular are of a high specification.

I've recently had the opportunity to work on a live brief for Ingestre Park Golf Club to create a golf video showcasing their course and facilities for their website. The project has strengthened my client relations and video editing skills. I've also worked on another project brief for advertising agency, Dentsu to market Greggs to Gen Z customers. This has really helped me to develop my marketing skills.

The Institute of Technology in itself is inspiring, but as the class sizes are smaller, I get one-to-one time with my lecturer who has lots of industry experiences. I get to work in smaller groups on project work which has helped me to grow my teambuilding skills and bring more of my ideas to life.

We use a variety of programs across the course to develop and grow our skills in photography, videography and marketing which will make us more employable out in industry once we graduate. Having access to one program would limit our knowledge, so this has been a really positive aspect of the course.

There is a good balance between theory and practical work and we spend a lot of time working with clients or hypothetical projects to give us the practical skills and confidence needed to work with different clients and businesses. 

Balancing a part-time job alongside my studies has been the biggest challenge, however with good time management and planning, I make it work for me.

Yes, I have been able to apply for student finance and it's enabled me to purchase any additional equipment to use during my studies and also on personal projects. This has included a camera and laptop which has enhanced my learning.

I am focusing on working in a creative advertising agency. The HND is helping me to develop all the practical skills I need to secure employment whilst becoming a better communicator which is essential for a successful career in this area.