Prepared me in ways I never imagined
Can you talk about your favourite module and why it stood out for you?
My absolute favourite module throughout the course was the Principles of Music Industry Leadership. It is a fantastic introduction into the programme, into the music industries, and into the different aspects behind the music industry. It provides a lot of background information, but it also really gives you that head start you need to figure out what you want to do within this industry. I personally came in not really knowing what I wanted to do, aside from just generally wanting to be involved in a music in a professional sense, and this module really helped give me the guidance I needed to hone what I wanted to do for my future career.
What are the benefits of having the opportunity to do a dissertation?
A dissertation is a fantastic opportunity for anyone who's academically or business inclined to really find a topic that you're interested in and do a heavy amount of research into it. You can figure out what you like or think you like, and do a deep dive into it with the resources provided by the university. You can investigate a hypothesis, figure out what's missing, and then write a report about it. At the end of the day, you come out with an interesting addition to your CV and some practical knowledge in a very specific field that you've become an expert in.
What advice would you give to a student considering this programme?
To anyone considering the programme, from a passing interest to an increased interest, I would definitely say apply. Whether you're involved in music, involved in business, or outside both spheres but interested, there are incredible perspectives to gain from this programme. It's really opened my eyes to aspects I thought I would never be interested in and has given me opportunities to expand my career in ways I didn't even think possible when I finished my undergrad. Even if you're mildly interested enough to have looked at the programme, apply and see what happens - it's a really interesting programme.
What's one lesson you've learned during your programme?
The biggest takeaway from the programme is that while it's difficult to deal with uncertainty, you can certainly learn to manage it. There are many techniques you can employ to mitigate uncertainty to the best of your abilities and try to control it in any way that you can. The implications of this don't just apply to the music industry, but to aspects of life and being involved with the community as well. Learning how to adapt to changing circumstances and develop strategies for managing the unknown is perhaps the most valuable skill I've developed throughout this course.
How do you feel about the alumni community?
As a graduating student of this programme, I'm really excited to keep my relationships with the department. The alumni community is growing continuously, and the relationship between the programme and its alumni is very tight. I'm looking forward to continuing this relationship as I move forward into my professional career and further collaborating with the programme. There's a sense that your connection with Sheffield doesn't end when you graduate - you become part of a network of professionals who stay connected to the department and to each other.
What's your overall experience been like of the music management programme?
My experience of the programme is top tier. Between the amazing faculty, the diverse modules, and the intensity of the dissertation, I feel incredibly prepared for my future. I really can't attribute it to anything more than how well structured the programme is. It's fantastic. The programme strikes an excellent balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application, and the support from both departments creates an environment where you can truly develop both personally and professionally. It's been a transformative experience