Sophie
Clifford

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“I chose to study at NTU as my course was able to offer a variety of facilities and resources, and with the City campus situated in the city centre it’s been easy to explore. I’ve found that as a student in Nottingham, everything you need is pretty much on your doorstep whether it be the workshops, library and University’s Students’ Union or local shops, restaurants and galleries.”

What do you enjoy most about studying Textile Design?
“One of the things I enjoy most about the course is the freedom you’re given to explore your own style. I really enjoy how we are constantly pushed to be experimental in order to create successful media and samples.

“I also really enjoy the company of others within the School of Art & Design. I’ve found that students from all year groups are always willing to give advice and support within the workshops, and this creates the sense of a really tightly knit design community.”

Has the course included and live projects, briefs or industry competitions?
“In Year Two we’ve been given the opportunity to work in small teams on a Next AW18/19 menswear brief. The opportunity to present a collection to industry alongside my team is an extremely rewarding experience, and is one that will give me the confidence for my future career. I am really enjoying the interaction with my fellow course mates and the combined skills that we are able to share with each other.

“Thinking about industry competitions, in Year One I took part in an external design competition for Bradford Textile Design Society, and having been commended for my knitted textiles I was invited to attend an awards ceremony where my work was exhibited alongside other universities. This opportunity was both enjoyable and exciting, but also extremely rewarding.”

How do you find the course staff?
“Staff on the course are extremely supportive and helpful. Tutorial sessions are organised on a regular basis as well as one-to-one’s if extra support is needed. The course staff are great at giving both design advice as well as technical support.

“Technical staff are specialised in a particular areas which is always good and it’s reassuring to know that they are always around in order to give advice about any technical issues or worries you may have within the workshops.”

How do you find the facilities at NTU?
“There are a vast range of facilities on offer to art and design students at NTU whether this be the large workshop spaces, the on campus art shop or Bonington Gallery that holds many exhibitions and events throughout the year.

“The wider university facilities are also great, such as the library conveniently located on campus, the large lecture theatres with digital screens and recording facilities, through to the amazing Students Union that not only hosts new and exciting events on a weekly basis but has its own gym, bar and restaurant.”

Would you recommend the BA (Hons) Textile Design course to others?
“I would recommend Textile Design to others because it is a lively and exciting course that has a real sense of community with everyone making you feel welcome. The course is always offering students different opportunities and experiences around the city, and in Year Two I’m doing just that!”