Esme
Kirk

BA (Hons) Costume Design and Making now known as BA (Hons) Design for Stage and Screen (Costume Design and Construction).

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“I attended several open days to get a feel for the course but also for the city. The course is one of the only costume courses in the country that teaches you both design and making skills, which I believe makes you more employable.”

What do you enjoy most about your course?
“I enjoy the structure of the course, you build up both your design and making skills in the first two years and get to try lots of different techniques. This builds up your confidence and prepares you for the creative freedom you get in the final year.”

Has the course included any guest speakers?
“We regularly have guest speakers visit from industry and most of our tutors are still working in industry which means they are constantly passing on valuable advice. I also find it really helpful when alumni come in and talk to us, they give a very honest view on the working world and very helpful advice for once we have graduated.”

How do you find the course staff?
“Our course is relatively small which is amazing as it means you get lots of tutor time. Everyone is so helpful and knowledgeable and it’s a very inspiring environment to learn in. I always feel supported and I am really going to miss all the staff when I graduate.”

How do you find the facilities?
“We have several studios which means the different year groups have separate spaces to work in. Everyone also has a locker which might not seem like a big deal but it’s a life saver when you have so much fabric and equipment!”

What do you enjoy most about living and studying in Nottingham?
“Nottingham is a perfect size, it doesn’t take long to find your way around. There are so many sports clubs and societies that you will definitely find something that interests you. I joined burlesque in Year One and was the president for the club in Year Two. It was so rewarding and fun to be part of this outside the course.”

Why would you recommend your course?
“I can’t speak highly enough of this course; you learn so much and the three years fly by! By the end of your degree you won’t want to leave NTU.”

Has the course provided you with any work experience opportunities?
“I completed a two-week work placement at Angels Costumes in London working on a film called How to Talk to Girls at Parties for the costume designer, Sandy Powell. My role was to distress costumes and source clothes for the extras and crowd scenes. I learned so much about the different roles people have on films and got a real taste for the working world.”