Why did you choose Northumbria School of Design, and what did you know about us before you applied?
I chose the School of Design for its excellent reputation and I wanted to study a 4 year course so that I could go on placement for a year, which the Fashion course offers.
What do you most like about Newcastle, and how do you find the city?
I love how great it is for students! There are so many great student deals here and the living cost isn’t too bad either. I also love how friendly everyone is here. People are always willing to help.
How do you find the cost of living in Newcastle?
I find the cost very reasonable. After living in the South for a year I came back to Newcastle, and it made me really appreciate just how low the prices are here, and what you actually get for your money is great.
Did you find the Design School welcoming?
Yes. I think the openness of the building really helps you communicate with the other courses more, rather than being stuck in an enclosed room.
How do you find your tutors and the staff within the School?
My Tutors are all very helpful when in need of advice. Sometimes they can be hard to track down however other tutors within the course always offer there help if you cant find the tutor you need.
What are the facilities like?
The facilities are really good. The space on the 3rd floor is huge and the sewing room has everything we need in it.
What do you like most about the School of Design?
I like the openness and freeness of the place. It is nice to be able to walk past other courses and see what they are doing too.
Tell me a bit about your course?
My course is Fashion Design and I specialise in Womenswear and Pattern cutting. Our work consists of designing, pattern cutting lessons, making and portfolio based projects which include a lot of computer, illustration and design work.
If you had to pick an object to represent your course, what would it be and why?
A tape measure and a pot of pins as there the most vital accessories a fashion student needs.
What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date during your time with us?
I’ve learnt to be independent when making design decisions.
If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?
Hard-work, Fun, Rewarding
If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?
I would say in regards to Fashion, Northumbria is great as they really do have great facilities and Newcastle is a great city to live in as a student and also has great travel connections to other cities such as London and Edinburgh.
What are your plans now and for the future?
To hopefully get a job in the fashion industry somewhere in London.
What skills would you say you have gained/improved since the start of your course?
My skills as a designer have definitely been pushed in order to achieve where I am as a designer now. My knowledge of pattern cutting and manufacturing have also developed much further.
What new knowledge of your subject area have you learnt so far on your course?
I didn’t know how to use Adobe Illustrator before coming to Northumbria, but now it is one of the most essential programs I use on a daily basis.
