I’m finally back with a new Uni Life interview. The purpose behind this interview series is to give prospective and current students an insight into life at university, what it takes to get there and how to survive. I hope that these interviews will give you a chance to learn from current and recently graduated students about the courses you’re interested in.
This week I’m talking with Cat, a final year Fashion Communication student at Leeds College of Art.
Did you have to study specific subjects at college to get onto the course?
I did a Art & Design Level 3 diploma at college which set me up for my uni applications. To get into Leeds I only needed a double merit to get onto the course as well as an interview. I did English and Media too but my heart has always been in Art.
How did you know this was the right course for you?
I chose Leeds because Fashion Communication was quite a new course at the time, people didn’t really get what it was. So I was quite excited to start something quite revolutionary and the course had different aspects more to other fashion courses in the UK. The course is designed to fit all your needs, it’s great because you can do whatever you want, literally.
What do you enjoy most about your course?
The freedom. My final major project is about Senior Style, over the past year I have been photographing women on the streets of Leeds to celebrate age, and all the support has been outstanding. I don’t feel like I could have the freedom to do this on any other course.
What do you find most challenging about your course?
The independence, but that’s a good thing. When I first came to uni I struggled with having to problem solve a lot on my own. But that was probably the best thing that could of happened, in the real world, I’ll have to problem solve all the time!
Are internships easy to come by in your field?
Yes and no. I applied for 30 internships last year and heard back from 5, it depends what you want to do but the best advice is just keep applying, applying, applying. That’s what I’m going to do when I graduate.
Please tell us about an internship that you’ve gained something positive from.
I interned at Christopher Raeburn last Summer which was a cool experience. He works with sustainability and I loved seeing his collections because he works so differently, for example he made jackets out of lifeboats in his last collection. There was also a day when I made a giant inflatable tortoise to have at one of his shows – not many people can say that made a giant tortoise on their internship.
Do you have any career plans in mind for when you’ve graduated?
Yes, well, at first I feel like I need a break to figure out where to apply and what suits me. I want to ultimately go into fashion photography. But I want to start by photographic assisting, and see where it takes me. It’s amazing how you end up, because I have so many interests in the arts it’s going to be tough but I’m ready to start my career.
What do you do in your spare time?
Usually hang out with friends, go to gigs, photograph, make, create. I prefer bars to student clubs and then I like cosy nights with friends and my boyfriend. It all depends on my mood.
What would you’ve liked to have known about university life before you started?
Nothing! That’s the exciting part isn’t it?
What keeps you motivated?
Showers in the morning and good life advice. Ringing my mum on a daily basis keeps me sane too.
What advice would you offer to prospective Fashion Communication students?
Be ready for a hard 3 years, but if you’re passionate, it shows – work hard.
Finally, what is your favourite meal after a busy day of lectures?
I’ll eat anything! Literally.
I want to say a big thank you to Cat for taking the time to be a part of this interview. All the hard work will be worth it in the end and I’m sure she’s going to move onto creating a very exciting career.
You can find Cat over on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and her portfolio.