Bucks New University opened its doors to a variety of industry professionals on Tuesday at its ‘Creative Minds, Creative Futures’ conference.

The conference was aimed at students currently studying in the department of Arts and Media at the university. It was followed by workshops run by the professionals giving the students an insight into different careers following on from their degrees Boo Ritson, a local artist who graduated from the university in 2002, ran a workshop about her career as an artist.

She said: “I love talking to people who are just starting out.

If I was to give them one bit of advice it would be to have courage in yourself and your work”

Mike Rowbottom, a writer and broadcaster for 35years ran the workshop alongside Boo. He said: “Boo gave an interesting and encouraging talk to the students on a subject that could be seen as quite bamboozling”

The day was mostly held in the Town Hall, with some workshops being held throughout the university.

The opportunity to talk to industry professionals proved a great success amongst students.

Jo Gardener, a second year student studying Media and Journalism said: “I learnt a lot today. Having people from different careers, that have actually done the job, was a really insight.”

Radio 6 presenter and UK songwriter Tom Robinson ended the day with a brief note to students.

He said: “The vital thing is to get started in whatever it is you want to do, fast.

“You need to work out what it is you want and work towards it.”

Other professionals who took part in the day included: Trevor Baylis, inventor of the Clockwork Radio; Phil Longman, journalist from print, radio; Mike Smith, Managing director of Columbia Records; Nik Powell, Director of National Film Institute and television and Julie Voyce, editor of the Buckinghamshire Advertiser