Anna Brewster

Career overview

I originally studied BA Graphic Design at Norwich University of the Arts before undertaking my MA in Communication Design at Northumbria University. During my undergrad studies, I worked for Marimo Magazine as a community manager and as a freelance book designer for the University of East Anglia. My first full-time position was with Archant Publishing, where I quickly progressed to middle-weight digital designer, working on online campaigns and ads.

What are you doing now?

I am now a designer for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH). My role sits within the brand team. As an in-house designer for a charity, I work across a broad range of collateral. Examples include; designing Pioneer magazine, creating asset packs for streamers on Twitch, designing out of home rail and tube adverts for GOSH and also working with patients and staff in the hospital to make sure we are designing navigation systems and spaces that make their trip to hospital more comfortable.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

Northumbria was the only university to offer a course in Communication Design that had a special focus on designing for good and positive social change. The course offered to teach students how to conduct design research and then use findings to present evidence-based design solutions that focused on the user.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

I often describe my time at Northumbria as one of the best years of my life so far. I felt privileged to have access to a studio with equipment, a huge library and lovely colleagues and staff. The people I met on this course were incredible. Everyone supported each other through their work and research. I’ve definitely made friends for life.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

Each member of staff is an expert in their field, working on cutting-edge research and projects in their fields. They share their invaluable knowledge and expertise with you at Northumbria.

How connected was your course with industry?

Really well connected to the industry. Tutors bring in experts in design fields to give lectures, run workshops and general talks. They also offered a 4-week programme to work with an agency on a brief where you receive feedback and support from industry professionals.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/give your career an edge?

The course briefs are always written like live briefs. Students are encouraged to choose and write briefs that could have a real-world impact. This meant conducting research, using academic papers, reaching out to people in other industries, and thinking about how this may change the current ways of working. It felt as though I was already working in the industry, so when I left, I felt very prepared.

What was the best thing about your course?

The tutors had invaluable knowledge and experience to share, often working in industry alongside teaching, and they were also lovely people.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

Testing and focusing on the user. I learned how important user-centred design is. Now, if we ever need to create navigation systems, installations or spaces for patients and staff, we ask them what they want. We test designs with them before anything goes live. It is the best way of finding the most effective solution.