Tom's story

Careers support helped Tom discover a passion for sports journalism and take a chance on university.

Tom, from Crickhowell, is currently studying at the University of Gloucestershire. When he was finishing sixth form, he felt unsure about his future and didn’t have a clear plan. At the time, his only plan was to take a year out to go travelling, with no consideration of going to university.

Tom said, “I didn’t really have any aspirations. I wasn’t sure what I was going to do, and I kind of just hoped everything would fall into place.”

Getting guidance

Tom found exams difficult and struggled with motivation towards the end of  his time in school. Although he had interests in sport, media and IT, he lacked the confidence to explore them as career options and had already ruled out some options.

As he considered taking time out to travel, his mum encouraged him to speak to a careers adviser.
Tom said, “I didn’t really want to speak about it. I just hoped everything would sort itself out. But I went to the appointment in the end.”

During his meeting with Careers Wales adviser Vicky, they talked about his interests and what he enjoyed doing.

He said, “Vicky asked me what I liked doing and what I was interested in. From there, she gave me lots of different options I hadn’t thought about before."

Discovering an interest in sports media

Through these conversations, Tom began thinking about how his interest in sport could link to a future career.

He shared, “I’ve always been a big sports fan. That’s what I enjoy most, and I liked the idea of doing something like sports journalism.”

Although he had not originally wanted to go to university, Vicky encouraged him to keep the option open.

Tom said, “I said I didn’t want to go to university at all at first. But she suggested I apply anyway and see what happens.”

Tom applied just before the UCAS deadline and was later invited to visit the University of Gloucestershire.

A change of heart

After visiting the university and seeing the course and facilities, Tom’s perspective changed.
Tom said, “When I went there, I really liked it. The course looked great and I thought this is something I could actually see myself doing.”

He went on to accept a place and is now in his second year studying sports journalism.

Linking study to real experience

Alongside his studies, Tom has started gaining experience through internships. He recently secured a placement with a regional media outlet, covering professional rugby in Gloucestershire.

He said, “It’s been really good for my confidence. The course and the experience I’ve gained have helped me a lot.

“I’d love to go to America and report on baseball one day. That’s always been my main goal, but I’d be happy working in sports journalism in any way.”

Advice to others

Tom encourages other young people who feel unsure about their future to seek support.
Tom said, “Speak to a careers adviser. It was one of the best things I ever did.”

He added, “Bad results don’t mean everything. A lot of things can still fall into place.”

If you would like to explore your interests and opportunities with a careers adviser, please contact us today.

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