Life through a lens: filming project lifts the lid on what life is like for Postgrads at the University of Northampton

A new filming project to showcase the vibrant, 300 strong, postgraduate research community at the University of Northampton, has recently received funding from the Chancellor’s Fund.

Anthony Stepniak, who’s studying for a PhD in English and Creative Writing, within the Faculty of Education and Humanities, and is also the student representative on the Research Degree Committee, created the project. Anthony said: “The postgraduate research students at the University are a very diverse group, both in age, the subjects of the studies they’re undertaking and where and how they’re studying.

“More often than not, postgraduate research students will spend the majority of their time working with their supervisor. The feedback in the most recent Postgraduate Research Experience Survey highlighted that more could be done to create a stronger research environment between student peers.

“I hope that these videos, it will be a first step to develop a more connected research student community, who can be inspired by each other, work together and share ideas would be a strong way to improve university life.

“In creating this project, I wanted to make sure as many students as possible could benefit from them, I’ve commissioned UoN TV, our student film company, to shoot and edit the film packages. Postgraduates working with undergraduates is a great way to develop all our skill sets and get real world work experiences while working on this project.”

The videos will cover:

• ‘Involving Yourself in the Academic Community’ – Detailing ways of immersing yourself in the research community and tips on how to do the same for your research area.
• ‘Preparing for Transfer’ – Explaining the rules and regulations around the transfer process – answering key questions and featuring current PhD students and supervisors talking about the experience.
• ‘Inclusivity and Equality’ Outlining the diversity of the Research community at UoN. Covering Part time/ off site and mature learners.
• ‘Success Stories – Life after the PhD’ – focus on the impact of gaining a PhD especially in regard to employment and they will star our Alumni.

Dr. Cristina Devecchi, Senior Lecturer in Education supported the project bid to Chancellors Fund, commenting: “I fully support this initiative which addresses some key issues and will not only enhance what is currently under development but also bring innovative ideas to how the University can recruit new postgraduate research students and support their current ones.

“The videos will also be a springboard for other students, faculties and the Graduate School to build on and develop further innovative and creative ways of reaching all our students.”

If you are a postgraduate student, or supervisor, and would like to be involved in the filming project please email anthony.stepniak2@northampton.ac.uk.