Hear from MA Digital Futures student James about studying online at King’s, returning to education and applying his learning to his career.
Meet James McBreen, a podcast producer with a background in digital technology, communication and research-adjacent project work, and a current student on King's College London's online MA in Digital Futures.
In this Q&A, James shares his experience of studying online at King's, from returning to education after 12 years and balancing his studies with work, to developing new skills and applying what he's learned to his career.
Tell us about the moment you knew it was the right time to pursue this programme?
For me it was about trying to take back a bit of agency. My work in creative production for the tech industry had been disrupted by the narrative around AI automation, and I could feel that creative roles were being devalued.
I decided I wanted to equip myself with as much knowledge as possible about emerging technology and its impact on societies, industries and individuals, so that I could help shape the future rather than just live through it.
Describe your feelings right before starting your first module. What were your biggest hopes for the programme?
I was excited, if a little apprehensive that I might have forgotten how to flex my academic muscles after 12 years. I made a pact with myself before starting that I was going to throw everything I had into it and really make the most of what an institution like King's could offer.
How did you plan to manage your studies alongside your existing commitments? What was your strategy for the first few weeks?
I made an agreement with myself that the master's would be my priority. I committed evenings and weekends to study, and made sure I could work flexibly around the programme's requirements.
Can you recall a specific class, project, or interaction where you realised you were truly mastering a new skill or concept? Describe that moment.
It was actually a moment outside the course itself. Alongside my studies, I'm producing a podcast about AI and the future of work, interviewing experts across academia, policy and industry. The course has not only given me the knowledge to engage with guests in a way that wouldn't have been possible before, it has also sharpened my communication skills. And being an MA student at King's has opened doors to people across higher education and industry I wouldn't otherwise have met.
What was the single biggest challenge you faced during your studies, and what resources or person at the university helped you overcome it?
The biggest challenge was getting back into an academic mindset after so long out of education. King's offers a lot of academic support tailored to different needs. My module tutors have been excellent, and the wider academic and library support has been a lifeline. I have also been able to take part in extra-curricular Edge programmes to build skills outside the Digital Futures curriculum.
What is the lasting impact this programme will have on your community, industry, or family? What change do you now feel empowered to make?
Well, let's say I'd like to believe that I can play a small part in shaping how technology impacts society. Come back to me in a few years and we'll see where I've got to!
If you could give a prospective student some encouragement or advice about starting this journey, what would it be?
Just embrace that this is going to be the centre of your life for the next two years. It's a real privilege to be able to study at one of the world's top universities. Take as much from that experience as you can.
Thank you to James for sharing his experiences with us!
Explore the King's online MA in Digital Futures and develop the expertise to understand, shape and respond to the digital trends transforming industries and society.
