Von
Ruzive

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“Through my research, I found that NTU was one of the recommended universities specifically for studying Fashion Design due to its facilities; various industry projects and the flexible option of completing a year in industry. After my interview, I knew that this was the place I wanted to study.”

What do you enjoy most about your course?
“I particularly enjoy the Design, Culture and Context module, which is the theory side of the course. It provides further insights into the society I am designing for.”

Has the course included any live projects or briefs?
“Throughout the course there have been many live projects and industry briefs set. One I particularly enjoyed was the Linda Leaver project. This project challenged us to design a collection that provided solutions for the physically disabled. Through market research and design development in adaptive clothing, I could not help but question why this was still not part of mainstream fashion. As a result of this project, I have based my dissertation on this subject.”

Can you tell us a little bit about your favourite industry project?
“The competition that I have enjoyed the most was a group brief set by former founder of All Saints, Stuart Trevor. This involved designing and constructing a menswear collection for the brand Bolongaro Trevor, after having conducted client/market & trend research; fabric & trim sourcing and design development. It was a pleasure to present the collection at the catwalk show where my team was announced one of the finalists.”

How do you find the course staff?
“I am very appreciative of Fashion Design academic and technical team. From my experience, each member of staff has shared a genuine passion to push students from their design development to contextual research. It is great to have such support throughout a fast-paced and challenging course. A perfect example would be the support I received from tutors when I was the first to trial a video-dissertation.”

How do you find the Fashion Design facilities?
“I really appreciate that we have our very own fabric store right next to our studios. Not only is it convenient but it’s lovely to have support from the technicians when making fabric choices. It has also been insightful to have workshops and one-to-one sessions with specialists from print design to Computer Aided Design.”

What do you like about studying and living in Nottingham?
“Nottingham is a great city with access to frequent transport to and from the city centre. It is a place full of inspiration. It is great to be surrounded by like-minded individuals who are supportive and also inspiring.”

Have you completed any work placements during your course?
“I was one of the few students on the course to take the option of the year in industry between Year Two and Three. I spent a year working at the headquarters of French Connection in London where I was Global Licensing Intern. During my placement, I was promoted to the Licensing Co-ordinator.

“These roles being more business-based, I gained insights into the complexities involved when developing a collection. It was also enjoyable to work with the Creative Director and the company partners from sketch to production stages, equipping me for the world of work after education.”