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Playing at Glastonbury is a career highlight for Music and Drama alumna

Playing at Glastonbury is a career highlight for Music and Drama alumna

Published: 13 Mar 2023

Helene Hambrook

Without a doubt, as a mature student, my best memory of Brunel was a combination of meeting so many other students and fantastic lecturers.

Helene, Undergraduate, Alumni

Retired special schools’ teacher and music performer (not retired!), Graffiti Designs

Music & Drama BA - 2000

From UK

Tell us about your educational and/or career journey since you graduated from Brunel?

My main aims to teach music, dance and drama in state special schools came true, but I have always written, arranged and performed.

What does a typical day at work involve for you?

I managed to get two contracts in two special schools for four days per week. The other three, I toured with my band.

What’s been the highlight of your career journey so far?

Playing on two occasions at Glastonbury, and getting the audition to play at Disney Land Paris before I applied for University.

How would you say your Brunel experience has helped you to get where you are today?

It filled many gaps in my musical knowledge. I learned so much and completed the degree course to a 2.1 standard when I was written off by my 'parents' and school (there's a dark back story!).

Why did you choose to study at Brunel and why would you recommend Brunel to others?

Honestly, it was a no brainer - the campus in St. Margaret’s Twickenham [one of Brunel’s former campus sites] was literally at the end of my road!

What is your best memory of studying here?

Without a doubt, as a mature student, it was a combination of meeting so many other students and fantastic lecturers. Plus, the library.

If you could give one piece of advice to current Brunel students, what would that be?

If you have a wobble in your second year (as I did!) when the real work starts, don't give up. Please stick with it - I’m so glad and proud of myself for finishing, which stays with me permanently.

What would be your top tip or key advice for new graduates as they begin their career journey after leaving Brunel?

Education is the only way forward quite frankly in this climate, even if just for your own brain food and stimulation. Who knows what'll happen in our future...

#IamBrunel