Sophie
Roger

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

I found out about Decorative Arts whilst doing my Foundation Diploma in Art and Design and went on to speak to NTU at a UCAS fair which made up my mind about choosing NTU as my first choice university.

What’s your favourite thing about your course?

The creative freedom we got and ability to explore a whole range of materials were definitely two of my favourite things about Decorative Arts. The tutors and technicians are so knowledgeable and just made the learning process so much more enjoyable for me.

How have you found the course facilities?

The facilities I had access to in Bonington were fantastic – particularly all of the ceramic’s machinery and equipment.

Have you worked on any live briefs or competitions?

I worked on a Pretty Polly hosiery brief in first year for a surface print module, and then a Denby project in second year.

Has your course included any guest speakers or industry trips? What have you enjoyed about this?

Throughout Covid my course tutors have made the extra effort to recruit many guest lecturers from ex-graduates to well established makers. As these were being done over Teams, they were able to get speakers from all over the world, giving us really diverse outlooks on the design craft industry.

What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

Lively / Thriving /  Unique

What do you think of the creative and cultural scene in Nottingham?

Nottingham is a great city for Art & Design students. The Creative Quarter and Sneinton Market are particular hot-spots for creatives and independent businesses that has a really friendly feel.

Where would you recommend visiting in Nottingham?

The Pelican Club! Quite a new find for me, but it has amazing food and cocktails, a cosy atmosphere and live Jazz music – what more could you want?!

If you could give new students some advice, what would it be?

Make the most of your time being a student, the three years go by so quickly and you’ll miss it when it’s gone!

What do you think of the course staff?

My course staff and technicians are all fantastic and I couldn’t have achieved what I did without them!

Have you used any of the student support services or NTU’s Employability team?

NTU’s employability team are a great resource and being able to use them for three years post-graduation is a bonus.

What’s next for you after NTU?

I’ve just started working full-time as a Ceramics Production Assistant at deVOL Kitchens and plan to continue with my own ceramic work on the side when I’ve got used to full-time work again!