Jake Franks

As I said in my previous post, I am currently applying for jobs. So many companies want a candidate to apply through their own on-line systems now, which means filling out lots of little boxes and practising your typing skills.

One which I am currently 90% of the way through has asked me to write a personal statement (and include 5 photos - unusual?) which I have’nt actually done since I applied for University through the UCAS admissions system.

On the spur of the moment, I have decided to share my UCAS Personal Statement with you, as I still feel it’s relevant to who I am and what I wanted (and still wish) to do. I may delete it in the future if I decide it’s too embarrassing.

Here it is:

Ever since my parents bought me my first radio, I have been fascinated by the way that this medium of communication works. My interest in radio broadcasting has led me to devote more of my time to listening to the radio, and learning about how programmes are made. I love the dynamic format of radio, the way that it is a very live form of media, unlike television which is mostly recorded. I am also very interested in the technical aspects of radio; particularly in the ways that audio is processed and transmitted over long distances in order to reach such a wide variety of people.
My study of Physics at A-level has helped to teach me more about the science of radio, and how transmitters and receivers work. I have good IT skills, and see myself as a technical person. I have been assisting and managing the technical production of many dramatic performances in my school over the years. I have helped with sound and lighting on numerous shows, and have also been appointed as Student Stage Manager. I enjoy having this role within the school because as well as having a position of leadership amongst the other stage hands, I have learnt how technical equipment such as the sound desk can be used to enhance the audio experience of the audience.
Studying Design and Technology at A level has also helped me to be more curious in learning how things work, and how designs can be created or modified to solve foreseeable problems. Through my study, I have learnt how to use computers to aid in design, and to aid the manufacture of products.
I enjoy reading the Independent’s weekly ‘Media’ supplement, which has fuelled my interest in the media industry by teaching me more about how it operates. I also enjoy reading Private Eye magazine, and enjoy satirical humour radio and television programmes. I often download and listen to a number of podcasts, such as BBC Radio 4’s Front Row podcast, which discusses issues that have been in the news that week. I am interested in how podcasts are made, and am enthusiastic about this new way of bringing audio media to the public.
Being a house prefect has given me a greater sense of responsibility within the school towards the younger year groups. The position has taught me how to handle situations within the house by using my own initiative and knowledge through experience. I have enjoyed working with others for the improvement of my house and school, and value the commitment and responsibility that this position requires.
Outside of school, I am very interested in popular music and have also performed as part of a band, being the front man on occasions. I enjoyed these performances, as I was able to entertain many in my school and have fun while doing so. I even received a commendation from the Headmaster for my efforts. I have been a member of the RAF section in my school’s Combined Cadet Force for four years and have been promoted to the rank of Corporal. My duties have involved leading a team of cadets and teaching them about the RAF, as well as leading them on a number of weekly exercises and field days. The self discipline and leadership skills I have learnt through being in the RAF have taught me how to give and take orders with respect for the people around me, improving my overall welfare.
After my GCSE exams, I had a week of work experience at the local Eastbourne radio station Sovereign Radio, in which I learnt how a small commercial radio station operates by observing the radio journalists and presenters going about their daily routine.
I am inspired by how radio is being used today to help improve local communities; for example a recent article in The Times reported how US troops have been using a radio station in Afghanistan to build up support amongst the local people by notifying them of the work they have done. This shows how radio is still powerful today despite the popularity of television, and I would love the oppurtunity to develop my knowledge further.

Well, there it is. Maybe if you’re ever asked to write a Personal Statement, this would help you as an introduction or example of where to start.

Thanks for reading.

Hello to you if you are viewing my page for the first time.

Recently, I have been applying for jobs, and I have been giving out my jake@jakefranks.com e-mail address. So, if you are a perspective employer of mine then welcome to my site.

Here I share my personal views and opinions, and they are all mine. They do not reflect the views of my employer or any future employers.

As you may have gathered, I am currently looking for jobs in the Brighton and Hove area. I am skilled in computers, basic HTML, CMS, and other computer input operations. I have been praised in the past on my customer service skills and work with a passion for whatever task I am assigned. If this sounds good to you, and you are looking for an individual with my qualities, then please e-mail me on the address above. References are available on request.

As for my future plans, I am looking into what is required to become trained as an Electrician. In the meantime, I need to earn some money to pay for Christmas, and to pay off some debts from my European holiday. News to follow on that adventure, watch this space…

Linkscast (Eastbourne College) Feb 2007 by Jake Franks on Mixcloud

So, this time 4 years ago I was asked to help out with the first ever podcast from my school newspaper, LINKS. It was a very amateurish attempt on my part but the music was really something to be proud of. Thanks to the guys who made our lovely jingles and to Deja for the use of their song.

Ok, so it’s already Feburary and I have yet to do anything interesting with this website…

I’ve been getting on with some studies at The University of Westminster while I continue with my Radio Production course there. I am currently taking a module in ‘Contemporary Issues in Media Policy’ and ‘Arts and Entertainment Journalism’. They’re both very interesting, and I look forward to getting stated on the first assignments soon.

Outside of studying, I have enjoyed starting to drive around and have done over 250 miles already! I bought some stick-on bullet holes from e-bay to ‘pimp’ the car up somewhat.. Looks very cheesy! I’ll post a photo up here soon when I’ve stuck them all on.

I’m still looking for radio work experience, and I have been looking at community stations in my area for help. I recently contacted Uckfield FM which I hope I’ll be able to get involved with, hopefully in some news journalism capacity.

I hope to add my CV to this website soon, and make it more professional looking for prospective employers too.

I passed my driving test today at 9:30 Was so happy after the test, as I wasn’t that hopeful about doing it. I’ve spent a long time learning and I’m glad it’s finally over. Now to get some insurance on my 1989 micra, which could be cripplingly expensive! Hmm, let’s see how it goes. Glad to be on the road :)

A new year, a new website.

Lots to do and achieve this year, so I am here to make a personal site about how I’m going to get where I want in life. I hope to make this site a little more professional in the future too, but I’m just learning how to use Tumblr.

I’ll be back soon, stay tuned!