In this alumni interview we speak to comedian and writer Amanda Hursy, whose sharp observations have helped her build a growing reputation on the comedy circuit. Amanda graduated from the BA (Hons) Psychology and Sociology degree at UWS.
Can you tell us a bit about what you’re doing now?
I am working up material for my new stand up hour called ‘Death of a Saleswoman’ that will be on at the Gilded Balloon Patter House this Edinburgh Fringe. It’s a new show about masking in the corporate sales world for over 20 years and accidentally becoming a comedian.
I am also building up my own business which is launching this year and have already been booked for huge civic events such as the Commonwealth games – so it’s an exciting time.
What first sparked your interest in comedy and when did you first realise comedy was something you wanted to pursue seriously?
I have always loved having a carry on and a laugh and always been described as having ‘funny bones’, but I had no intention of ever pursuing a career in comedy.
I went for a promotion at work, but the job went to someone’s nephew on the board. My feedback was that I needed more confidence presenting: In true Glaswegian style, I thought that right!?, so to prove my boss wrong I signed up to a one off comedy gig, but this joke backfired as there was a promoter in the audience who invited me back. One gig turned into 20 and now a career and I have been laughing ever since. It is essentially a joke that has gone too far!
How did your time as a student at UWS shape your path?
I was the first person in my family to achieve higher education and it was important to me to get it done. When I was a student, I also worked a full-time job, so I was not hugely immersed in the student life, I kinda kept my head down and worked hard to secure the degree.
I think UWS helped to shape my critical thinking, especially studying social sciences and this has helped with gag writing and finding a different angle to my comedy peers.
Are there any skills from your course that you still use today?
I have used the disciplines from the course to help me to build my own business. I offer comedy workshops, using humour and psychology to boost confidence and wellbeing and have teamed up with a Clinical Psychologist and comedy veteran to deliver bespoke workshops for many industries.
Additionally, I provide comedians for corporate events and help punch up speeches for CEOs and sales training, having had a career in corporate across many global FMCGs.
What has been one of the biggest challenges of working in comedy?
There are barriers in comedy for women and the working class. Many big names, TV and touring comics come from a place of privilege and wealth, and it is harder to break through with less opportunity – but I will keep going.
What has been a highlight of your career so far?
Being a panelist on BBC’s Breaking the News was pretty cool, as was doing tour support across iconic venues like the Armadillo. I am most proud of my debut Edinburgh hour ‘Carted‘ – it is a great show and I put everything into it. I wrote the show for myself and the response has been amazing!
What advice would you give to recent graduates considering a creative career?
To do what makes you happy. Working in a corporate job with a salary, bonus, company car is good for a short time, but it’s not for everyone.
A creative career is freedom and brings so much joy, we live once.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice during your time at UWS, what would it be?
To go to a hairdresser and to never cut my own fringe!
Find out more about Amanda’s show at the Edinburgh Fringe in August 2026 here: https://tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk/event/14:6684/