Lea Baum

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

Before joining my course at the University of Westminster, I knew very little about London only that I wanted to explore my creativity across a wide range of mediums. When I came across the Creative Media Arts BA, it felt like exactly the programme I had been searching for. It offered the freedom and breadth I needed to experiment, grow, and challenge myself creatively.

How has your experience been studying in London?

I have absolutely fallen in love with London. Living here has allowed me to learn so much about the creative industries simply by taking part in activities and events that interest me and are readily available in the city. In terms of my studies, the support from my lecturers has been invaluable, they are inspiring, encouraging, and genuinely invested in helping us succeed.

Tell us about your course and what have you particularly enjoyed?

Contemporary Media Practice (now the Creative Media Arts BA) is a space to explore a broad array of mediums, with strengths in film, photography, and new media, including emerging technologies like AR and VR. I initially joined the course eager to develop my passion for photography and soon found myself diving into animation and generative art as well. While I still focus mainly on photography and creative coding in my personal practice, the course also helped me discover an unexpected passion for exhibition production and curation through organising module- and course-wide shows. I think this perfectly reflects the spirit of the programme, there is room to experiment widely and still find your true direction.

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

We have access to an incredible range of academic resources at the University of Westminster. My course is fortunate to be led by passionate and engaging practitioners who are always willing to offer technical, creative, or motivational guidance. They understand that a creative mindset can be fragile and vulnerable, and they actively encourage questions, conversations, and exploration to help nurture our ideas.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course (e.g. course related trips, study abroad, sports clubs, societies and any competitions)?

I had the opportunity to travel to Hong Kong through the Westminster Working Cultures programme, which is unique to our university. During this week-long trip, I met and networked with Westminster alumni, learned about the opportunities available within Hong Kong’s art scene, experienced the local culture, and built friendships that I still maintain today. The programme offers around nine international trips each year to cities across the globe. It is an incredible privilege to have access to such a programme at this stage of our careers, and I encourage everyone to take part.

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

We had the advantage of gaining access to a wide range of equipment and spaces through course inductions. From the very beginning, we have the same access to photography and film studios, and the equipment, as students on those dedicated courses. A particular highlight for our course is the Emerging Media Space (EMS), where you can get help with anything from coding and 3D modelling to working with sensors. The EMS technicians are highly skilled and incredibly supportive, even if you come in with nothing more than a question or an idea.

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

Commit to seeking out the answers to your questions and there is no limit to what you will learn.

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

The Harrow campus is such an amazing space. Not only does it have amazing creative facilities, but the library and the forum alone create a sense of community you need when you're venturing out on your own and unsure of what might come next.