Caitlin Bolton

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I chose Westminster mostly because of the course itself. Compared to my other offers, the course at Westminster covered the widest variety of literature and offered more creative writing classes. It also gave me the most choice when selecting modules, so I could really customise my degree and make it my own. The course emphasised employability from the start, which I really appreciate as I’ve chosen a creative degree. 

How has your experience been studying in London?

I’ve really enjoyed it! I love that my course takes me to new areas around London that I might not have discovered otherwise, and I feel that studying here has enriched my student experience more than a traditional campus would. I’m connected to the literary hub of the UK, and I wouldn’t find as much creative activity or have access to as many resources and connections for my career outside of London. I also love how culturally diverse the city is. I’ve made friends from all around the world, and it’s such an exciting place to be based. 

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course? 

I’ve loved how varied the Creative Writing course is. Instead of just focusing on novels and short stories, I’ve also developed my skills in poetry, stage plays, and film and television scripts. I feel like I’ve had the chance to try almost everything, which has given me a broader skillset and helped me discover which mediums I want to write in going forward. 

The English Literature course also covers a lot. I’ve studied Greek tragedies and Shakespeare, English classics like Austen and Brontë, queer poetry, Modernist American and Caribbean works, and 21st-century novels like Never Let Me Go and Yellowface. It’s given me a fantastic overview of everything literature has to offer. 

How have you found academic support as part of your studies? 

I’ve really appreciated the one-to-one tutorials. It’s reassuring to know that mentorship is available while I’m writing an essay or a creative piece, and that lecturers make time to talk to students individually about their work. There have been a few times when a tutorial has completely changed how I feel about an assignment, in the best way! 

I’ve also found the Disability Learning Support team very helpful. It’s good to know there’s a team ready to support me during times when I struggle to meet deadlines or attend in-person classes. 

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course? 

The Soho Poly theatre has been the cornerstone of my introduction to London’s writing world. It allows me to attend poetry and play readings between lectures and see how writers network with other creatives and publicise their work. Most events are free for Westminster students, and since it’s so close to Regent Street, it’s a really useful space for anyone looking to work in the performing arts or related literary fields. 

The Soho Poly also hosts craft workshops, like badge cafés and zine-making sessions, as well as musical performances. They’re a fun way to unwind during the week. 

Tell us about your experience of using the University Careers and Employability Service 

The Careers and Employability Service has been helpful in pointing me towards career opportunities. For a year, I worked remotely as a Contributing Writer for a lifestyle magazine based in Australia. I only found the role because the university’s employability newsletter sent the recruitment post straight to my student email. 

The application process was simple because it was supported by Westminster, and I was able to gain relevant work experience and start building my journalism portfolio. 

Tell us about any activities you have undertaken outside of your course 

I joined the Cheerleading club in my first year, and I’m so glad I did! Westminster has lots of societies and sports clubs to join, and since I’d never had the opportunity to try cheerleading before, I thought I might as well give it a go. 

It’s really enriched my experience. I’ve had the chance to compete nationally around the UK, and I’ve made friends from different courses and campuses who I might not have met otherwise. I also had the pleasure of serving as Club Treasurer in my second year and Captain/President in my third year. 

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster? 

Take every opportunity and sign up for as much as you can. Aside from making friends and discovering your new favourite hobby, there are so many ways to develop your skills here and achieve things that will help your future career, so make the most of it. 

What’s the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student? 

The freedom to build the university experience you want to have, with all the resources you need at your disposal. With campuses well connected across Central London, a vibrant student community, and the ability to choose the modules that interest me most, being a Westminster student has always been about finding what works best for me. 

I can build the skillset I need for my career and enhance my studies with activities that I genuinely enjoy. 

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience? 

I’ve been surprised by how much Westminster has to offer outside my course. There’s always another opportunity to connect, whether it’s a poetry reading, craft workshop, sports event or writing competition. 

Students actively shape the community as well. I can attend an art exhibition created by students at the Harrow campus, or head to a karaoke social in The Hideaway at Regent Street. Something new happens every day.