Hailey Passmore

Why did you choose Chester?

I chose Chester for multiple reasons that might not be typical for a university student. Coming to the UK as an international student, the tuition and corresponding fees for the University of Chester were quite promising. However, once I visited the city and received an excellent tour on the opening day, I knew my decision had been made. Plus, with all the travel I do, Chester is in an ideal location for three airports and a direct train to London.

What did you enjoy most about your course?

After three years of a BA in Film and Media Studies, I cannot lie, I enjoyed the film lectures the most. While I do appreciate the hands-on work that goes into making films, I love talking about films so much more. Being able to learn film/cinema/movie history and discuss different styles, eras, directors, etc. helped me discover a new area of the industry. I believe that without studying film in university, I never would have thought about reviewing films as a profession.

Do you have any advice for someone who is thinking of studying your subject?

My best advice for someone who’s thinking of studying Film and Media is to watch as much as you can. Read lots too. The more you have seen (or read), the more you will know when either making your own films or talking about films. Anything you can get your hands on will help you more than you would think. Don’t just watch English cinema, expand and watch foreign language films, animated films, anything outside of your comfort zone.

What graduate role have you commenced? What area(s) are you working in and what does this entail day-to-day?

Throughout my studies I discovered film festivals, which I also recommend if you can. Get out there and network, watch things, talk to people. From this, and an extreme use of Letterboxd, I started writing about my thoughts. I then began to reach out and try to get my writing out there. Finally, in my final year I applied for a position to guest star on a podcast and attend the London Film Festival as a critic, thanks to Katie and LinkedIn (make sure you get it) for that. Currently, I’m working freelance and just practicing my writing and interview skills. It’s okay to not have a position right away, but working on my personal brand requires a job to fund it as well, so I’m an employee at Picturehouse Chester (which has its benefits as a prior film student).

How did your time at Chester prepare you for your current role?

I feel like I sort of talked about this in my other answers. It allowed me to learn about the industry, watch more than I would have without becoming a film student, and take the time to travel to film festivals. I gained so much knowledge about movies that helped me figure out how to write about them. Though we only had one module on criticism, it’s one’s own individual knowledge about film (or television shows) that lets them have the skills to write about their opinion.

Did you take part in any extracurricular activities, societies, or internships while studying?

I didn’t take part in any societies or internships while studying. However, I did extracurricular activities which came to me thanks to being a student and working at the cinema. I was able to go to the Berlin Film Festival as a student, which was a vastly unique experience that I enjoyed greatly. As well, I helped program the student / young people short film program at the Chester International Film Festival that took place at Storyhouse March 2025. Though it has spread past graduating, I also have contacts within the University whom I believe I’ll be able to do more with in the future to expand film throughout town.