Ruby
Gaunt

Ruby studied BA (Hons) Photography.

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“The course at NTU stood out because of its strong links with industry, emphasis on employability and international opportunities. I made the decision that this was where I wanted to study when I attended the interview; I spoke to students and tutors and realised just how passionate everyone was. It was so clear how much time and interest the tutors invest into their students and how everyone is encouraged to grow through their practice without any restrictions.”

What do you enjoy most about your course?
“I most enjoy being surrounded by supportive, intellectual and inspiring people on a daily basis and being given the opportunity and freedom to learn such a wide variety of skills. Having never studied photography prior to studying at NTU, this course has allowed me to grow and has given me such confidence in my work and a drive to succeed in the future.”

How do you find the course staff?
“I think that the course staff are the main strength of the course. I have experienced courses in the past with very little support and interest from tutors which made studying difficult. However, at NTU the staff are so approachable and so genuinely interested in the work of all the students.”

Can you tell us a little bit about your exchange opportunity?
“I studied for one semester at the prestigious art school, ESAD Grenoble (École supérieure d'Art de Grenoble) in France, and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had!

“Whilst there, I worked with tutors who were based in a variety of disciplines which resulted in an extremely different teaching style. It was incredible to work in such a different way. I specifically chose to study in France as the course was taught completely in French and I wanted to improve and test my language skills, in the hope of working internationally in the future. It was incredible to be completely immersed in the French lifestyle!

“Being in a different environment allowed me to produce different work and experiment more. I was also able to make international connections and meet people from all over the world who have turned out to be some of the greatest friends, as well as people who I work with professionally.”

Why would you encourage other students to go on an exchange?
“It’s a once in a lifetime experience that I don’t think my explanation can ever do justice. Even if you don’t want to learn or practise a language, there is still so much to gain from studying in a foreign country.

“Being an exchange student is so different to studying at home as you’re forced to live and work in such a different way, you become more independent and open to trying new things. You become more connected to the rest of the world through experiencing different cultures and your new friendship group will be made up of people from all over the globe.”

Why would you recommend studying at NTU?
“The course gives you the freedom to learn and make work that suits you. You have access to professional level facilities and excellent industry connections including inspiring guest lecturers. The course has so much to offer and I feel like it has given me a great foundation to build my future. It has taught me how important it is to seize every opportunity and that you have to work hard if you want to be successful in a very competitive industry.”