Charlie Kidd: ‘The smaller classes, close-knit communications, and ability to save money are truly a benefit of this place’

Tell us about your course, why did you choose it and what have you particularly enjoyed about it?

My degree is in Graphic Communication and I’m just finalising up my final year. I chose it for the element of creativity and for understanding of the industry, and that’s exactly what I’ve gained from it. I’ve enjoyed the independence to express my own creativity and showcase what I’m capable of achieving. I actually studied Games Design at West Suffolk College and then took a two-year gap and worked before applying here.

What made you decide on University Studies as a place of study?

I applied to other universities and was offered the placements, but after I considered the costs and finances of it all, I decided that staying local was the best decision for me. I’ve been able to work alongside my studies and save money by being at home. The one-to-one connection with lecturers was also a big part of my decision; I don’t think that many other establishments offer as close of a connection with their students, but we have smaller groups, you get a lot more hands-on support.

How do you think the experience has differed compared to other places of study?

Obviously, by going to a bigger university, in a city for example, you’re likely to meet a lot more people, however, I’ve lived in Bury since the age of 10, I already know a lot of people in this area, and I’ve maintained my social life with them. I didn’t feel the need to go somewhere where the social life is a pulling point. I haven’t missed out on anything by staying local. If anything, by coming to US, I’ve been able to keep my head down and focus on the actual studying.

What are you most proud of from your US journey?

I think I’m most proud of the internship I did with a company called Honest Designs in Cambridge. I rebranded and advertised a jar of honey for them which is sold by the manager of the brand. It was called Honest Honey, and the experience and the feedback was a real highlight. On the whole, I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved here, of course there’s always room for improvement, but I think its good to be proud of your own achievements.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learnt at US?

I’ve learnt a lot about the industry, which is what I came here for.  You’re not always going to be given creative freedom that you want, but I’ve learnt how to be able to work to a brief and still give it my own edge. The course has prepared me a lot for understanding things going forward in the future by covering a wide range of areas of design. I’ve discovered a love for rebranding. A bit like what I did for the Internship, I love taking something that already exists and rebranding it, modernising it, and bringing it to social media.

What do you plan to do after graduating?

I’ve been freelancing since the second year. I have my design Instagram account where I share my work and can be contacted for commission (Instagram: @ckdesign___). I’ve had about 2-3 clients a month but going forward I’m hoping to get myself out there once I’ve learnt to drive. I’m aiming to build my portfolio and hopefully still have the clientele to keep me going for now.

How has US helped you achieve those goals?

I think the university has certainly helped with getting to where I am now, ready for the next step. I have a friend who studied elsewhere where their class was rather large, and they got a one-to-one session once a month at a push. It’s nothing like that here. You can get the feedback you need as you want it which is a huge perk of having a small group. You’re able to get a personal connection with your lecturers and peers, and that helps you progress with so much dedicated time to you. I’ve also gained some connections and contacts through the Internship and if the position ever arises, I’d love to work for that company, it’s a lovely place.

If you could sum up the US experience in 3 words, what would they be?

Creative. Adjustment. Concentration.

If a friend were thinking of studying at US, how would you persuade them to enroll?

I would 100% recommend US to a friend. The smaller classes, close-knit communications, and ability to save money are truly a benefit of this place. Overall, I’ve really enjoyed my time here and I’ve come from being uncertain on what I wanted, to leaving US feeling like I know where I’m going. The university has helped define me by giving me the confidence, support, and motivation to succeed and achieve what I want.