My name’s Emma Long and I am currently studying my final year of a PR degree at Leeds Metropolitan. Originally from Norfolk (don’t hold that against me!) I chose to study at Leeds Metropolitan University as it is considered the best PR course across Europe.
The course has allowed me to explore both practical and theory elements of the industry encouraging students to undertake both short term placements and longer sandwich year placements allowing you to experience a year in industry. I undertook my placement year at Air Products, an industrial gases organisation based in Surrey where I was a member of the Internal, External, Community Relations and Change Management communication teams. It was a year that I thoroughly enjoyed and believe set me up ready for the demands and pressures of final year whilst being a brilliant opportunity to build contacts and experience to my CV.
The highlight of my final year so far has been being nominated for the Claire Maskall award. I was lucky enough to be shortlisted and was a brilliant experience which will set me in good stead for the future. It is opportunities and experiences like this which makes Leeds Metropolitan and good choice for a PR degree.
Any fan of The Strokes will understand just how special it was to see front man Julian Casablancas perform his solo album Phrazes For The Young right here at our university. Bringing with him from New York a retro sound similar to the work of The Strokes, it was a treat for fans new and old.
Wearing a black, leather blazer that no one else could get away with Julian introduced the gig with Ludlow Street. Anybody who still wasn't dancing by this point soon began to rock out as upbeat, pinnacle album song 11th Dimension went down a storm.
Although quiet natured he expressed his thanks to the crowd. What was actually said remains a mystery due to that distinctive, gravely, deep voice. The crowd were very welcoming to an acoustic version of The Strokes smash single You Only Live Once. I was singing along with arms firmly in the air.
Praise must be given to the band also. No band could ever upstage the other members of The Strokes but these guys certainly gave them a run for their money. There were some pretty impressive guitar solos in 4 Chords of the Apocalypse and Out of the Blue. With The Voice and a great band playing great music, Julian delivered an album that although similar to his work with The Strokes, had a fresh and fun twist to it.
Introducing the final surprise song, Julian admitted that he wasn't sure whether to play it or not. It was I Wish it Was Christmas Today. When I first heard it at home I wasn't too sure how seriously to take it, with it being a wee bit cheesy. Nonetheless, it is Christmas and everyone got into the spirit! A quick thank you and Julian was off the stage in the blink of an eye. That's what was so good about this gig. It was Julian and the band performing his awesome album to the crowd. No gimmicks or effects. He absolutely rocked it.
What the students thought:
Ruth, 19
“Everybody went a bit crazy when 11th Dimension came on. It was a really good atmosphere.”
Dave, 24
“I love The Strokes so was quite excited at the thought of Julian playing in Leeds. His solo stuff is just as good.”
Lucy, 20
“I enjoyed it lots. The ticket price was a bit steep but I suppose it was worth it!”
