BCU Grad Show - Trinity Mirror Award for Online Student Journalist of the Year
Award shows are great, aren't they? Free bar, food vendors, exhibitions and... a bit of a party afterwards.
I attended the Birmingham School of Media Graduate Show at Parkside last night and despite knowing I was nominated for an award (thanks for the heads up Caroline!), I genuinely did not expect to receive the one I did. As we gathered in the lecture theatre to celebrate three years of academic reading and writing, as well as somehow surviving on minimal sleep, the showreel showcased all of our work and achievements over the past three years and damn, it was impressive. My peers have all demonstrated true creativity and professionalism, and seeing their work left my heart beaming for their successes as their projects and research came to life, just like mine.
As the awards commenced I knew the talent was extraordinary and even to be nominated, although I was quite sure what for at this point, was an honour. Each category was strong, with all nominees practically radiating gold beams for their outstanding work and contribution. Starting with TV, then radio, it was then the journalism category. I heard the title of 'Trinity Mirror Award for Online Student Journalist of the Year' I clapped, but then I heard my name read by Sue Heseltine (acting head of the school) and Paul Bradshaw (course leader for MA Multiplatform and Mobile Journalism) as a nominee. MY NAME. Yasemin Gumushan. What?!
Talking about my project Busk in Brum, the pair briefly explained why I was up for the award, likewise for three other (extremely fantastic, may I add) students. A drum roll then followed as students hit their knees to the beat and I was awarded the certificate. Gobsmacked, speechless, shocked, but proud. How on earth did I manage to walk away with a swanky framed certificate?!
My time at BCU has been so rewarding, I feel fulfilled with joy at how far myself and fellow students have come as we enter the professional working world. The tutors have changed the way I think, act and study for the better, but above that, it's truly incredible how caring they are for us all. Never have I known a group of tutors and lecturers celebrate their students achievements quite like the Birmingham School of Media's. Thank you.
