Ryan said: “I was in full-time employment and earing a salary.  I'd always been interested in film and it was a hard decision to give up a job and go to College.  But I took the plunge and it's one of the best decisions I ever made."

Looking back, Ryan reflects on how his time at West College Scotland's Greenock campus   allowed him to fulfil his ambitions.

“I loved my time at College - but it was also hard work. My Creative Industries course covered a range of media subjects, including Television Technology, Script Writing, Directing, Editing, Sound and Camera Operation.  It gave me a good insight into the different types of jobs within the media industry."

“The lecturers were great. I built up many good relationships and I’m still in touch with them ten years on.”

Ryan says his HND in Television gave him a great insight into the industry, not just in terms of technical know-how, but also the importance of contacts, something he thinks is crucial to success.  Startng as a "runner", Ryan is now an established Camera Operator.

I’ve travelled the world, made great contacts and earned the respect of others, all because I asked.

“Working as a Camera Operator can be difficult: it involves long hours, and working in horrible weather. But it’s also a fantastic job - not to mention very rewarding. Every day is different, presenting new challenges, locations and people.”

With over eight years’ experience, Ryan continues to return to the place where it all began, delivering workshops to students, giving them an insight into what they can expect from a life in the media.

“I’m delighted to be able to come back to the College to give advice and help to the next generation.

“The main purpose in coming to College was to get a job at the end of it.  The College will help and support you in doing that.

"In this industry you need to be proactive and get yourself out there and known. You need to take the initiative and get networking – 90% of the time nothing comes of it but that 10% that does can help you make it. I’ve travelled the world, made great contacts and earned the respect of others, all because I asked.”

For more information on our Creative Industries course click here.