UCAS applications and Uni Interviews

In January I submitted my UCAS application for the fin al top up year of my application for the final year of my degree. At this point I was still unsure as to whether I wanted to progress to the Top Up year or not but I did want the option to be open so I decided to apply.

My choices were Northumbria Uni – this was to join the degree course for the final year. Sunderland Uni  - this is a specific year in Graphic Design & Newcastle College  - this is a specific top up year in creative practices.

Following my applications I was invited to attend interviews at all three of my choices, although in the invitation they advised the students can only join at the start of year two, this was not an option for me so at this stage I decided not to attend.

This left me with Sunderland & Newcastle. My Sunderland interview was first. I prepared my portfolio proper to the interview showcasing pieces of work I felt would have shown my my style & skill level. Sunderland conducted group interviews. I gave Maddy & Donna a lift in my car. We were taken on a group tour of the art & design building before the actual interviews.

During my interview I was asked why I had chosen Sunderland to study at. I had heard about the good reputation of the Art & Design at Sunderland from friends & relatives during the past couple of yearsand decided that it would be worth travelling a little further everydayto take advantage of the facilities on offer. We talked about what field of Graphic Design I would like to land, I discussed my design &  creating visual experience on the page as we looked at my portfolio. I talked through my work explaing the theory behind my editorioal pages. I asked about the flexibily of the course bearing in mind that I have two children & I was informed that as long as I was in most days they are fairly flexible. This was good to hear & will make a huge difference as to whether I can consider Sunderland as a firm choice should I be offered a place.

After the interview we were taken on a tour campus. I was impressed by the facilities particularly the library and can see that Sunderalnd has a lot to offer. I felt positive about the interview after leaving and I am hoping to be offered a place to start in September.

I also have my Newcastle College interview to come, I feel more prepared for it after the Sunderland interview and although I’m already familiar with the college it will be interesting to hear what they have to say.

5/5/13  Follow up...

I have been given a conditional offer for Sunderland providing I pass my FdA I can start in Septemeber. I am delighted with the offer as I feel that I can make an informal decision and choose the course that’s right for me. My newcastle interview is next week so I will await the outcome of that before making my decision.