Torfinnur Jákupsson

Torfinnur Jákupsson

Audio Production MA - 2011

You couldn’t ask for better academics. They are all very personable but also critical if they need to be - hence the high quality of the work produced. In fact, I don’t really see anyone as ‘one of the lecturers’ anymore, more like good old friends. There’s a tremendous amount of respect, and I think I can speak for the whole class when I say that. And that’s how you want things to be when you work so closely together, even if it’s just in a classroom setting.
 

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

When I first finished my BA studies, I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do next. I looked at different options, such as taking a break, continuing my education, and getting a full-time job. After a lot of consideration, the University of Westminster felt like the perfect fit for my ambitions - both in terms of the degree I wanted to pursue and the quality of teaching that the University offers. Westminster has a very vibrant environment with a truly global community. I’ve also only heard good things from friends who have studied here. So, I chose Westminster, which proved to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

How has your experience been studying in London?

Studying in London is an experience that you’ll never forget. Not only does the city have everything you can imagine, but the relationships you form - both personal and professional - are the kind you can’t easily find anywhere else and will never forget. London isn’t just a great place to live; it’s a great place to create those invaluable life experiences which will always stay with you.

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

For me, the best and most valuable part has been the discipline I’ve needed, not just to complete the course assignments but to elevate my work. Despite the number of assignments, they were always fun because you are guaranteed to learn something new every time. You couldn’t ask for better teachers. They are very personable, but they also help you to challenge yourself. I ended up doing far more than I needed to do for my final year project, and that has set the tone for how I have set up my own business and worked ever since I graduated.

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

You couldn’t ask for better academics. They are all very personable but also critical if they need to be - hence the high quality of the work produced. In fact, I don’t really see anyone as ‘one of the lecturers’ anymore, more like good old friends. There’s a tremendous amount of respect, and I think I can speak for the whole class when I say that. And that’s how you want things to be when you work so closely together, even if it’s just in a classroom setting.

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

The audio and television studio facilities are fantastic, and I can only imagine that they keep improving every year. The theoretical part of your study and work is important, but the practical application of that knowledge, I would say, is more important. One of the great things about our course was the access to the industry-level studios and equipment. This allowed us to become more creative and try new things, which prepared us for the industry.

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

The great thing about being in the creative industry, in my case, film and TV, is that extra-curricular activities such as concerts and the cinema are a vital part of your work. Needless to say, like any good student, I did a lot of extra-curricular activities throughout my studies.

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

As an international student at Westminster, I highly recommend studying at the University. It will not only develop your skills as a student and prepare you for the industry, but it will also develop you as a person and enrich you with unforgettable life experiences.

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

Apart from being able to call Westminster your home, living in London, one of the best cities in the world, will provide you with fantastic opportunities, lifelong memories and an international network of friends and colleagues that will no doubt expand your horizon in more ways than one.

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

The most unexpected aspect was receiving an award for innovation on my final project. My mother still has it on display by the dinner table.