Media learner is an inspiration to others after winning degree place at Wembley

Congratulations to Level 3 Media learner Jake Palmer, who has overcome a number of boundaries to win a place studying a sports degree at Wembley Stadium.

Jake (19), from Scunthorpe, is going to study BA (Hons) Sports Business and Sports Broadcasting at the University Campus of Football Business (UCFB) in September, as he pursues his dream of becoming a sports commentator.

“I decided to come to college because I wanted to progress myself in terms of my career development. I chose this college because they offered a course which meant I could go on to the career I wanted. I also wanted the chance to meet new people and have new experiences.

“The course has been brilliant. It’s pushed me and made me more determined to push myself more, which has helped me to progress onto things I wouldn’t have thought of doing three years ago.”

During his time at college, Jake has filmed the pantomime and Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards, while getting used to handling cameras and large pieces of equipment.

“I have dyspraxia which worried me at first, but now I look back and wonder what I was worried about. It affects me in terms of getting used to new surroundings and trying new things, which is why I like to push myself outside my comfort zone.

“When I joined the course I jumped in feet first, and have steadily progressed from there. College has really helped my development and the tutors have been a massive part of that.

“They’ve always been there if I’ve needed help but don’t do it for me, they just push me to be able to do it myself.”

He added: “The reason I chose to study here is because it has given me the opportunity to be in front of the camera, which will give me experience in what I want to do.

“It’s something I’ve wanted to do from the age of about six, ever since I remember watching the Formula 1 and listening to Murray Walker.

“When I was a child, people used to say that it wasn’t a very responsible choice because it was unlikely to happen, but I’m proving everyone wrong.

“My family are really proud; especially my mum, who has helped me a lot and has always been in my corner. It’s not been easy in terms of my dyspraxia and getting the support we were entitled to earlier on in my life, but she’s always been there for me.”

Jake said he is “really looking forward” to starting on the new course, which will teach him about public speaking, how the industry works and commentary.

“It looks amazing, and there’s no feeling like walking out on Wembley Way. To say I’ll be learning in the stadium every day; it’s too big an opportunity to turn down.

“I’ll be living in London and have been doing some work on developing my life skills to help me prepare.

“I’ve been practising my cooking and have spoken to learner services in case I get stuck with things like shopping or using the washing machine.”

Offering advice to youngsters in a similar position, he added: “It’s all about pushing yourself out of your comfort zone because you won’t improve otherwise. No matter way age you are, there’s always room to improve, which is something I always try to do every day.

“If you do have an additional learning disability or just low confidence, don’t let it beat you. You’re low on confidence because you don’t believe in yourself enough, but if you try something new you might surprise yourself.”

For more information about our Media courses, visit: https://grimsby.ac.uk/full-time-course/media-tv-film-production/