University showcases its home grown talent in new adverts

Current and former students have come together to work on an advertising campaign in a bid to attract new students to study at the University of Cumbria. The adverts will run as part of the university’s clearing campaign and were created by students and also feature students with exciting stories to tell about their experiences.

Nichola Duffy, 30, graduated from the university in July this year, gaining a first class degree in BA (Hons) Occupational Therapy.

Mature student Nichola, of Workington, completed her studies whilst looking after her four young children; Luke, 12, James, eight, Millie, seven and Emelia, five.

Nichola said: “I worried at first that I wouldn't be able to fit everything in or manage the academic side of the course but the university was very supportive and understanding and helped me every step of the way.

“As the only member of my family to go to university, my husband Craig and my four children are really proud of me. The kids have even started asking me if I would attend their graduation ceremonies which is nice to hear. I have also inspired family and friends to consider university, especially as I have dyslexia and have finished with a first class honours.

“If I had been one of hundreds in a class I may have been lost. Instead I know all my lecturers well and what's more important, they know me. I have gained the confidence to continue studying and intend to do my PhD in the future. My advice for those considering university would be that you can do it, and it's never too late. 

“I’m delighted to feature in the advert as I feel like I’m giving something back for all of the help and support I received.”

The adverts were produced with the help of current film and television course students from the university and also feature interviews from other current students.

They feature the music of Kontiki Suite, a local band who also had their music highlighted on Cumberland Building Society adverts. The track is called ‘Out the Window Flying’ and two of the band members attended the university as mature students.

Jonny Singh is studying BSc (Hons) Applied Computing and Chris Brown graduated from the BA (Hons) Social Work course in 2011.

The band recently enjoyed global radio airplay, particularly in America, as well as UK airplay on Steve Lamacq's BBC Radio 2 show, Tom Robinson's BBC Radio 6 Music show and a DJ slot on BBC Radio Kent.

Even the advert production was led by a former student. John Harkins, director of Brilliant Trees, was a student at Cumbria Institute of the Arts, a legacy institution of the University of Cumbria.

John and his Carlisle based company have worked on various well known projects such as Stobarts Kings of the Road.

The adverts are available to view on You Tube from Friday 27 July and will debut on Chanel 4 and 4OD from Tuesday 14 August. For more information about courses at the University of Cumbria or to view the adverts visit www.cumbria.ac.uk/realstudents.

Nichola pictured with her family