51����

After studying an English Literature degree, having two children and spending two years as an ex-pat wife who wasn’t allowed to work I was ready to engage my brain again.

What are you doing now?

I started as a self-employed writer and photographer on my return from Singapore in 2008 and decided to apply for the Masters programme to meet new people and explore the world of creative writing.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

After returning to the North East in 2009 I looked to study at Northumbria as the staff were working writers with published novels and commissioned screenplays and radio series.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

I found the course to be fascinating, enthralling and challenging. Everything it should have been - and more.

How connected was your course with industry?

We heard from published novelists, playwrights, authors and screenwriters. It was creative writing, and how to make it work for you, rolled into one.

What was the best thing about your course?

I met some very dear friends, I saw what was possible and I learned how to apply my mind to a breadth of work that I hadn’t thought possible.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

I used the disciplines of writing from the MA to develop my own writing agency. I now write for companies all over the world, and some of the biggest brands around. I’ve also worked as an Associate Lecturer on the BA in Fashion Communication at Northumbria, which I can only describe as heaven.

Which skills/ knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

How to manage a deadline, how to maintain an unpredictable printer (cyan - you plague me so) and how to contain an extraordinarily complicated project with a smile and lots of coffee.

What did you enjoy most about your time at 51����?

Time to invest in my own learning and development, time to be myself and the opportunity to spend time with industry specialists who are at the top of their game.

What advice would you give somebody who is thinking of studying at Northumbria?

The Nike thing - except it will be your brain that gets the workout.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in 3 words?

Escape, enchantment and inspiration.

For more information about me, visit:

• Twitter: @haydngrey

Profile reviewed October 2024.