Finn
Miller

BSc (Hons) Product Design student Finn Miller was recently awarded the gold award and came in joint first place at the Hydro Extrusions competition. Here we find out more about his experience taking part and studying at NTU so far.

Congratulations on winning gold at the Hydro Extrusions competition. Can you tell us about your experience and how you got involved in the project?

We entered the competition as a part of our course (BSc Product Design). I initially struggled to find a product area that could be improved using aluminium extrusion but coming from a small village, I realised how much street furniture and architecture around Nottingham is designed to oppose rough sleepers and deter them from public view without helping in any way.

This inspired my design – I chose a modular park bench that would help rough sleepers to recover their independence. It provides a fixed point of information that can inform them about potential employment, housing or other suitable aid, as well as provide them with somewhere safe to spend the night.

Why did you choose to study at NTU and how have you found the experience?

NTU was recommended to me by a family friend when, due to unfortunate family circumstances, my A-Level grades dropped from what was expected.

Since starting the course, I’ve been amazed at the support given by lecturers. I really like the structure of the course and having large slots of studio time to carry out coursework. Being able to freely ask questions towards both the staff and other students helps inspire my ideas.

What’s your favourite project you’ve worked on so far during your studies?

We had a fun team-building trip early in first-term that really helped to bring us closer together as a course. Our trip to the Norsk Hydro facility at Tibshelf was also great. It helped inform my designs for the Hydro Competition, allowing me to make better decisions on tolerances and support before it was too late.

What career are you aiming to go into when you graduate?

Completing my first year has reinforced my desire to go into product design. The breadth of projects we have completed so far, and have yet to complete, has helped me to narrow down the areas that I enjoy designing for.

How would you promote NTU to potential students in 10 words or fewer?

A supportive and collaborative environment.

Learn more about Finn by following him on Instagram and LinkedIn .