Laura Wilson, BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing

'I chose the BA (Hons) Creative Writing because I knew I wanted to be a writer. I thought that this course would be a good way to develop my writing skills alongside the study of English. I wanted a practical course, which would allow me to be creative and express myself. After graduation, I would love to do a Master's in Creative Writing.  After that, I want to work in the publishing industry.  Obviously, I would love to be a published novelist some day.

The course is quite small and all the pupils and teachers get to know and support each other throughout the years.  I like the way the two halves of the course are complementary, and you can choose to focus on one or the other.  We have had guest speakers from publishing houses and so on, which were informative and helpful.   The course focuses on the practicalities of finding future employment and being published, as well as the theories of writing.

My course does not require many facilities, but everything I have needed has been provided.  The only disappointment has been the number of set texts in the Library, given that sometimes 300 people need them at once, but this is because most people buy the novels to have themselves anyway.

Most of the support I have needed at University has come from the staff at the Students' Union and my friends, but finance and housing advice have been offered, if I ever needed them.  The Purple Door Recruitment and Careers services will come in handy as I start looking for a job once I graduate.

I have been an editor of the University’s student newspaper ‘Pugwash News’, during my three years at Portsmouth and I can honestly say it has been one of the best things I have done with my time.  I consider it a second degree, both in terms of what it has taught me, and the workload.  However, it has been worth it, for the friends and experience I have gained.  I have also written for 'Pugwash News' and had a few articles published on websites. Most recently, one of my short stories was published in a national magazine. My written work is getting out there and I am building up a portfolio, which is great.  I would highly recommend that new students get involved in University clubs and societies because it is a great way to enhance your university life and increase your employability.

Portsmouth is a student-friendly city, easy to navigate.  The University buildings are all close together and feel like a campus-based university, but without being segregated from the rest of the city. There are many things to do and see, and it is not too far off the beaten track. The seafront is gorgeous.  I personally love the walk from Gunwharf Quays to the South Parade Pier. It is long but there are some stunning views.'

Aimee Dibbens - BA (Hons) English Literature

'The BA (Hons) English Literature course is fantastic. It’s brilliantly structured and really interesting and stimulating. The lecturers are superb. They each have their own specialism, so that the teaching is varied and of a high standard. In addition, they are very approachable and provide excellent provision for tutorials and added support if required.

The range of support services that are available is enormous and ever growing, and they provide a brilliant service. Since coming to the University I feel that I have learnt a great deal and grown as a person, which is a direct result of the outstanding staff, facilities and resources.'