Where do you work?
me&dave, a small design agency based in Clerkenwell, London.
What is your role?
I’m a Middle-weight Graphic Designer. As we are such a small team, in addition to designing I also have to be flexible and do a bit of everything. Such as liaising with clients, preparing pitches, making mock-ups and, sometimes, even copy-writing. Being involved in all stages of a project has been enlightening and, of course, it ensures I have more creative control!
Did you feel confident about entering the design industry after you graduated?
I felt confident in my Mac skills and with the standard of my portfolio. I had heard horror stories about how competitive the creative industry is which made me think finding a job in design would be near impossible but it wasn’t!
What were you doing before the course?
I was working at the BBC for Children In Need in an administration role.
Why did you decide to do the course?
I felt my job could have been done by anyone and that I could be easily replaced – it was difficult for me to add value to my role. I wanted to do something that required more personal investment and input, a unique perspective. I like how you can give two designers an identical brief, and they'll come up with entirely different solutions.
What was the most valuable thing you took away from the course?
The fact that our teachers were working graphic designers was one of the best things about the course. They looked at our work and offered feedback as if we were in a real working environment. That sense that you're not working in a vacuum is invaluable.
Where do you see yourself in 12 months?
Still designing! I'd like to have designed a book cover perhaps.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
The highlight of my career so far was seeing a brochure that I had designed in the flesh! It's amazing to choose the type of paper, the ‘spot’ colours, design all the spreads and then finally see the finished product.