Â鶹ֱ²¥ University’s MA Applied Storytelling program was unique in its holistic approach, which matched my aspirations at a molecular level with no real competitors.
This program, thanks to my professors, felt like the first real introduction to academia and intellectual freedom. I particularly enjoyed, and appreciate, being introduced to the myriad theories and schools of thought surrounding applied storytelling as well as the different data analysis styles that still help me in my work today.
Everyone I ever approached for advice or help was uber accommodating, whether it was the teaching staff, librarians, academic writing support, or even the mental health and wellbeing team. There isn’t any particular example to mention, but the overall atmosphere of support was comforting and reassuring.
In terms of facilities, Pilkington Library is a trove of literary treasures which helped me expand my horizons by lightyears. The digital lab with its VR sets and 360° cameras were also very interesting to explore storytelling through. Aside from that, it was great to have numerous study spaces to choose from, such as the library, the graduate house, the Martin Hall café, and of course, the LSU.
During my studies I took part in , a project that Â鶹ֱ²¥ University’s Storytelling Academy had already been part of for almost three years. My role involved transforming the project findings into engaging experiences, allowing participating communities to learn more about the value of trees in their cities and across the UK.
In this capacity, I designed a game called “Treefold Investigations” which presents data from the study as clues for a murder mystery game of sorts. Not only did I learn so much about storytelling in offline games, but I also got to witness community members engage with my game, pin pointing areas of weakness worth noting in the future and experiential hooks to build on.
Outside of my course, the LU Arts Choir was a godsend. I got to meet some of the nicest people of all ages from across town, many of whom were senior citizens. Amid all the workload and all-nighters, having two hours per week reserved for breathing, singing, and laughing my heart out helped me stay centred and feel like I belonged to something. I also joined the Â鶹ֱ²¥ Boat Club, whose community took me in with warmth. Rowing on the Soar and facing the tides with my crew still is one of my fondest memories of Â鶹ֱ²¥. Last but not least, I will forever treasure the town’s peaceful pace, its widely diverse demographics, its nature, low-rise houses, and safe-to-walk streets.
Knowing what I know about applied storytelling – thanks to the MA program – I am now on a mission to find and introduce a formula for ethical marketing communications that doesn’t build its growth plan on misleading and misinforming customers or feeding them false needs all the time.
If you're thinking of studying Applied Storytelling, DO IT! There isn’t anyone who wouldn’t benefit from this programme if they opened their minds and hearts to the unlimited potential and opportunity that storytelling presents.