Reuben is currently in his second year of the Level 3 Music Technology course at Herefordshire College, and he’s confident he made the right choice.
“It’s really good. I’m glad I chose to continue on to the level 3 course,” he says. “Overall, it’s been a great experience.”
Before joining the College, Reuben studied at Whitecross High School. While the move from school to college felt like a big step at first, the transition quickly became a positive one.
“I was super nervous,” Reuben explains, “but the interview was actually quite relaxed. The tutors were really nice and very knowledgeable about the subject. We had a tour of the studios and learned about the course. That was it for me. I was sold!”
Seeing the facilities up close played a huge part in Reuben’s decision. With access to some of the best equipment in the industry, including world-class Solid State Logic (SSL) technology, the Music department offers an environment unlike anything students experience at school.
“It was literally like, ‘I’ve got to come here!’” Reuben says.
Herefordshire College is proud to be one of the few further education providers equipped with SSL systems, including a Duality Mixing Desk, which is a piece of professional equipment not found in any other FE college in the UK. For students like Reuben, this means learning in studios that reflect real-world, industry-standard environments from day one.
A Passion for Music
Reuben’s passion for music developed early. During school, he completed a BTEC in Music, played drums and spent a lot of time working with computers. It was the creative freedom that drew him in.
“I’ve just always liked it,” he says. “I love the creative side of music and that there are so many different paths you can take.”
That passion is now matched by opportunity. Reuben makes full use of the facilities available to him.
One of the highlights of the course for Reuben has been collaborating with other artists.
“Probably working with other artists has been my favourite part,” he explains. “I’ve got friends who rap and sing, so having them come into the studio where we work together is really nice.”
Reuben is quick to praise the tutors on the course.
“They’re amazing! Really helpful and supportive. If you’ve got any issues at all, they’re there in two seconds to help you fix it. They really know their stuff.”
Over his time at the College, Reuben has grown significantly, not just academically, but personally too.
“I was super shy at high school,” he says. “Then I came here and met some awesome people and made friends almost instantly.”
That growth has been noticed by staff, too. Reuben’s tutor, Ceri, says:
“Reuben has been with us for nearly three years. He first came to music as a Level 2 student and is now in his second year of Level 3. He has worked hard and diligently throughout his time with us and has always met expectations. He is among the first to arrive and the last to leave each day, and he has been a pleasure to teach.”
Reuben’s Future Plans
When thinking about his next steps, Reuben is keeping his options open.
“I’m not 100% sure yet,” he says. “I’ve been thinking about university or progressing onto Level 4 at Herefordshire College. Whatever I do, it’ll definitely be music-related. I’d love to get more hands-on experience in studios because that is where I see myself working in future.”
He’s also looking forward to taking part in the College’s upcoming trip to visit to Peter Gabriel’s renowned Real World Studios, which has hosted global artists including Alicia Keys, Harry Styles and Charlie Simpson.
Life at College
Outside of the course, Reuben enjoys the wider college environment.
“It’s daunting at first because it’s so big and busy,” he admits, “but once you get into the flow of things, it becomes second nature. There’s so much more to experience. Overall, I enjoy everything about it. The course is great, and I’m glad I decided to come here.”
For anyone in Year 11 considering Music Technology at Herefordshire College, Reuben’s advice is simple:
“Follow your dreams. If you’re passionate about it, just go for it!”