Hello, I’m Blake

Who are you? I’m 21 years old and in my second year of American Studies at the University of Portsmouth. I live at home just off Portsea Island and I work part time at a supermarket. I enjoy music by Jack Johnson and ELO and I’m a fan of the Back to the Future movies. I like nothing better than taking in the local scenery on a bicycle ride.

Why did you choose this course? I was very impressed by the SLAS department on the open-day, and as I didn’t know much about the Americas, I knew American Studies would be something different! I’ve already learned so much about North and South America! I’m also taking Japanese with the University language programme.

How did you get here? After finishing College, I started a degree in Environmental Science but realised it wasn’t for me.  I took a few excellent courses with the Open University before deciding to return to full-time education. American Studies has allowed me to develop my research ability and essay writing skills.

What are your plans? Once I’ve got my American Studies degree, I’ll be completing a science qualification with the OU, as I have been awarded credit-transfer for my previous study. I’d like to spend a year teaching English in Japan after I’ve graduated. I have ideas of becoming a full-time teacher later in life, but nothing’s certain!