Anushka
Gupta

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

Beyond the course ranking, NTU stood out for its diversity, creative energy and the opportunities available beyond the classroom. As someone pursuing marketing and social media, I was particularly drawn to NTU’s strong digital presence, while the course offered the perfect mix of industry networking, practical software skills, portfolio development and international exposure through experiences such as our Copenhagen fashion week trip.

What was your favourite thing about studying in the School of Art & Design?

I loved that I never felt like just another student in the crowd; the course gave me the freedom to shape my projects around the career I wanted to build, with tutors who understood and encouraged that direction. Combined with excellent facilities, inspiring faculty and a highly creative environment, the School of Art & Design genuinely became a place I looked forward to learning in every day.

What do you think of the course facilities? How do they compare to your work in industry?

The facilities and resources reflected what I later encountered in industry. When I moved into roles at HELLO! Fashion and later became a Marketing Manager at a jewellery firm, I felt well prepared rather than overwhelmed. NTU equipped me not only with practical skills, but also with the ability to analyse markets, recognise emerging trends, think strategically and confidently take ownership of projects; all of which helped me stand out in a competitive job market.

Did you get a chance to work on any live projects or competitions during your studies?

Yes, including a UI/UX project for an NFT artist that introduced us to the world of cryptocurrency, and an international collaboration with students from Humber College in Canada for the Commonwealth Fashion Council. Being shortlisted through these experiences pushed me beyond traditional fashion communication and gave me a much broader, more distinctive portfolio to take into industry.

Did you get involved with any other opportunities at NTU?

I became the elected School Officer for the School of Art & Design in 2022–23, served as a course representative and worked part-time in social media at NTU. Speaking to large audiences, representing students in meetings with senior university leadership and creating content professionally built the confidence and leadership skills that ultimately helped me secure managerial roles before graduating and later to build my own business.

What job are you currently doing and what does it involve?

I am now the Director of BrightNest Studio Ltd., a marketing agency proudly founded and registered in Nottingham, the city where I discovered a new version of myself. We help brands reach the right audiences through digital marketing, creative strategy, content and experiential activations, and the business has since received grant funding and was runnerup for the Creators & Makers Award at Generation Next.

How has your experience at NTU helped you in your current role?

NTU gave me much more than a degree, it gave me a safe environment to practise leadership, network, create, compete, make decisions and understand the UK market before entering it professionally. A manager at HELLO! told me that my experience and skills stood out among other graduates, and I credit much of that to saying yes to opportunities at NTU. Today, I use that same confidence to lead teams, manage clients and deliver ambitious projects.

What would your advice be to current Art & Design students?

Be optimistic, but more importantly, be an opportunist; there is something to gain from almost every corner of NTU, whether it is a live brief, study trip, society, election, part-time role or simply a conversation with someone outside your course. Say yes before you feel
completely ready, build something beyond your coursework, and don't forget to enjoy the experience while you're building your future.

What was the process of getting to where you are today?

Becoming a founder, building events for over 30 local brands, winning grant funding, being recognised for awards and eventually hiring other talented young people were never part of my original plan. My journey has been built through perseverance, curiosity and
repeatedly saying yes when opportunities appeared and looking back, so much of the confidence to do that began at NTU.