Reigniting optimism and charting new paths with Short Courses for adult students

Adult education can alter the trajectory of your life, both professionally and personally. We speak to one student who has had a truly transformative experience at Capital City College.

Blue, an adult student at Capital City College (CCC)’s Tottenham campus returned to education after a period of unemployment. He started with a short course in music and nightlife, which reignited his interest in music production and helped him regain his confidence. Since then, Blue has completed a number of short courses that have helped him explore different industries, develop his skills and better understand his strengths. 

Being part of the college community has become an important part of Blue’s life, providing education, structure and opportunities for growth. He is a member of the Student Union Executive Team at the Tottenham campus and, at the time of writing, is running for President of the Student Union this year. He would like to advocate for greater awareness and support for students living with health conditions that can pose barriers and affect access to learning.

We spoke to Blue about his experience of studying at CCC and the impact it has had on his outlook and his aspirations for the future.

What’s your professional background?

I am a graphics and multimedia designer; I always will be – no matter what. I strive to be the best I can be (in those areas), and CCC has helped tremendously of late. Not so long ago, I ran a digital publishing business online, which were a couple of very successful online magazines for electronic music and consumer tech for several years, and I also ran my own online record label with moderate success.

How did you come to study music at CCC?

In the past, I experienced discrimination, which meant I struggled to progress. In time I overcame these barriers and refused to buckle under pressure. The most important thing is I never wavered. I never gave up on myself.

Because I held out and stood firm in my convictions, there is no doubt in my mind that CCC came at the right time. CCC and I were meant to be. It was like destiny and the power of manifestation. I learned about the music and nightlife course in October 2023 and jumped at the opportunity, grabbing onto it with both arms and legs!

Since then, I’ve been fortunate enough to do a good amount of short courses – some of which were in Electronic Dance Music production, which has reawakened my desire to compose (electronic) music once more. I have even gone back to playing the guitar as a result; I am teaching myself. Technology is always changing, and it’s essential to keep up with what’s happening.

My aim is to gain a high level of sought-after skills in music production. I’ve already put out a couple of albums via my own label (currently in hibernation) and I am going to learn modern music production techniques in order to work with others as well as create solo compositions and productions. I also want to learn about being an independent recording artist as social media can raise my profile as a musician.

As well as studying music, you’ve also been studying makeup. How has that transition been?

I love the fashion and beauty industry and I’ve always been interested in makeup and special effects for film and theatre. I decided to finally do something about it! Debra Pluthero, who is the Lecturer in Hair and Media Makeup, has given me confidence to pursue a new career and also encouraged me to enter the WorldSkills UK competition, which meant, and still means, a lot. The fact that she thought I was good enough to enter makes me feel so proud. In the future, I’d love to take the opportunity to study more courses in beauty, fashion and special effects. I am hoping to obtain a Level 3 Diploma in Theatrical Special Effects, Hair and Media Make-up.

What impact has studying at CCC had on your professional outlook?

Massive! First off, I am elevated as a graphics and multimedia designer. My aim is to create a portfolio of my best work as soon as possible.

In addition, I have been made to realise I have very good potential as a music artist and producer.

I am creating new career pathways in subjects that I love, theatrical makeup, special effects, and filmmaking. Capital City College has been a lifeline and has kept my hopes alive, so it is incumbent on me to realise my dreams. Concrete possibilities are what appeals to me. I am also considering a teacher training programme.

How has studying at CCC changed you personally?

I’ve gone from being an introverted depressive person to a more social, optimistic being and my mentality has been boosted in ways that I cannot begin to express. The encouragement of my tutors and classmates has been invaluable. 

“The college has been a lifeline. Without Capital City College, who knows where I would be.”

Our Short Courses are an effective way to learn a new skill or get a taste of a new subject area. With some delivered online and some in-person, they offer great flexibility for those with other commitments. Take a look at our diverse range of Short Courses and see where they take you!

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