Creating an Identity for RGU:TV

I had been handed the reigns of RGU:TV.  I was responsible for content, branding, platforms, contributors and everything inbetween.  In my initial excitement, I saw this as a blank canvas and, in turn, an incredible opportunity.  But, I struggled to find a starting point. With so much work to do, where do you begin? 

In February 2013, I attended an event at the BBC in Glasgow called "BBC Get In!" 

The event provided information and helpful advice for people who were interested in applying for BBC talent schemes and work experience opportunities.  At the event, I noticed a number of people wearing hoodies with 'GUST' written on the back.  After the research I had already carried out, I realised that these people were from Glasgow University Student Television, and after the event, I plucked up the courage to go and speak to them.

I asked them about what kind of films they make, which type of films gain the most interest, and how they promote their station and recruit students.  However, 'GUST' is already a well-established student television station. They couldn't really give me any answers that were useful to me as the station had already been set up when they joined and the interest was already there. I was aware of the station's long history but I was surprised that the students couldn't answer any of my questions.  They then rushed off to attend an important meeting, and I left feeling overwhelmed at the task I had taken upon myself.  

But, being the shy person that I am, I felt pleased that I had been brave enough to speak to them.  This reassured me that this task was achievable.

How did I get into this?

After deciding that a television station was something I would like to get involved in, I started researching who to contact.  

At the beginning of my second year, I went onto my email account and realised that I had an email from the President of Communication & Democracy at the time asking for people to join the RGU Media Group, which consists of the magazine, the radio station and the television station. I was surprised to learn that a television station was already in existence and I hadn't heard of it, so, intrigued, I went along to the first Media Group meeting.

But, my surprise was mistaken, as there was, in fact, no television station at RGU, and I left the meeting with the responsibility of starting one.

Initially, I was pleased with the position that I had been trusted with, as it is a role that I had intended to take on in the first place.  But, I now had the added pressure of the Media Group behind me.