My College life was really good, the classes were always engaging and it’s where I realised I really did enjoy media. Having been involved in athletics for many years, I have a passion for media and sport and found the perfect blend in my degree course studying sports media communications at University Academy 92 Manchester.

In my first year at university, I decided to put myself out there and became a student ambassador. I wanted to demonstrate that I was both a trustworthy – and an ambitious – student. This led to my first opportunity in the sports media industry, working as an intern journalist at the Athletics World Championships in Glasgow. I think of this as a real turning point: the whole experience helped me gain a lot of connections in the industry. As a result, I’ve continued to find both work experience and freelance jobs. 

Covering sporting events such as Wimbledon, England Women’s Football games, Women’s Super League, London Diamond League and more, it felt that things were happening very fast for me.  In these environments, you can sometimes feel a bit of imposter syndrome, so you have to keep reminding yourself that you do have the talent to be there.

So now in my third year, I am also working as a freelance sports media creator, doing jobs on the side while completing my degree.  My hope for the future after graduation is to land a full-time job at a big sporting company such as Sky Sports or the Premier League. 

If I had any advice for College students, I’d say not to be afraid of anything and to get comfortable being uncomfortable. College is a great time to discover all subjects that you’re interested in, so put full effort into all your courses.

For people aspiring to a similar career path, I would say don’t be afraid to get your name out there, whether that’s through social media content or connecting with people on LinkedIn. You must do it!

Sarah McLean

Reigate College: 2021-2023

Higher education: BA Sports Media and Communications at University Academy 92 Manchester (degree awarded by Lancaster University)