James
Plimmer

What made you choose to study at NTU?

"The facilities were a big influence for me, having access to machinery, equipment and software I felt was highly beneficial. I also liked how the course was 100% based upon course work with no exams and that I felt comfortable with the course tutors."

What did you enjoy most about your course?

"The live projects with industry. Having a real brief and getting critical feedback from the company that was involved was hugely beneficial in enhancing my commercial awareness and design approach."

Can you tell us about your favourite memory from your time on the course at NTU?

"Our trip to Berlin in second year. It really made everyone get to know each other much better while visiting some really inspiring places and exhibitions."

Has the course included any projects with external partners, and if so can you talk a little bit about one you really enjoyed?

"One live project that particularly stands out was with Heal’s furniture. This project tasked us with expanding their existing product range through highlighting gaps or key opportunities to explore. It was great to have complete creative freedom in what to design, while doing so in a way that reflects the brand language and values of the rest of the range. Having the ability to speak directly with them furthered my commercial, market and manufacturing understanding which was taken and applied to future projects."

Has the course included any speakers / lecturers from industry - if so can you talk about one you really enjoyed?

"The guest lectures coming from design agencies/consultancies I found particularly interesting. Seeing their approach to briefs initially defined by a client and how this develops into the final design outcome was really beneficial. Having the opportunity to meet and ask questions to the speakers afterwards allowed me to start developing and establishing my network of industry contacts for the future."

Have you completed any work placements and if so can you tell me a little bit about them – where you went, what you did, and any skills you’ve gained that will help you when you graduate?

"I did my placement at PepsiCo, they own brands such as Walkers, Quaker, Pepsi and Tropicana. I was working on the European packaging team, developing new or refreshing existing packaging across the snacks and nutrition portfolios. This proved to be invaluable in developing skills such as communication, often across different time zones, and my business and commercial awareness."

What do you think about the course staff – include lecturers, tutors, administrators and technical staff within this. How do they support your learning and University experience?

"All the tutors are very supportive and approachable throughout the course. Their enthusiasm makes the subject even more interesting and really gets students excited about the work they do."

What do you think about the facilities available to you at NTU?

"Having a dedicated studio space to work was great to have. Since there were always students in there, you feel like you can bounce ideas off each other – it’s a great environment to work in. Also, access to machinery, electronic and computer labs really gives you scope to design and make exactly what you want.

The university facilities are all modern and well looked after, constantly being improved and developed. Having 24 hour access to the library and its facilities is really convenient."

What do you like about studying and living in Nottingham?

"Nottingham is a great sized city to live in and is full of creatives from a range of different design disciplines."

If you had to sum up your course in 3 words, what would they be?

"Busy, Exciting, Variable."

Find out more about studying BA (Hons) Product Design at NTU.