Why am I here?

As a part of this course I am reflecting upon how I got here and why I am doing Graphic Design at this University, as this wasn't my original plan! I studied Graphic Design at GCSE alongside optional subjects of Art, History and French, and mandatory subjects of English Lang and Lit, Double Science, Maths and Religious Education.

I decided to continue my studies during A-Level, taking forward my three best subjects of English Literature, Philosophy and Ethics (RE...ish) and Product Design, which was the only way I could specialise in Graphics during A-Level.

During GCSE, I did a band project, during which I created different types of promotional merchandise for a brief I set myself. I was so passionate about this project that I dedicated the majority of my time to the coursework, coming out with 90/90 in this part, and then studied hard for the exam, coming out with an A* overall.

In AS Product Design I focussed on redesigning and remaking the Guylian Chocolate box. During the study, I looked at all the bad parts of the current packaging, and came up with endless design ideas and solutions, modelling these all until I created the final design solution with Graphic Design. Through constant work in this coursework, I came out with 120/120 and combined with my exam, a grade A overall

Within the final year of my A-Level studies, I focussed on a more Resistant Materials based path (as I was told this was the best way to achieve the best grade) and so made a Cat Tower for our lovely kitties. Within this coursework I managed to get (an outstanding) 118/120. In my exam, I focussed on the graphics question. Overall for my A-Level grade I managed to get an A which was my best grade.

Here are my lovely portfolios which I am so proud of!

However, within year 12 I fell in love with Philosophy, and after trying to apply to UCAS twice for two different subjects (Graphic Design AND Philosophy) I overall chose Philosophy. I hoped to study Philosophy at degree level but ended up getting a lower grade in the subject, and was rejected for the course at my chosen unis.

This was when I realised that Graphics was the choice I should have opted for since the beginning as I had excelled in this subject since the start. I phoned Coventry University, where I was welcomed with open arms.

I hope you have enjoyed discovering my journey to Graphic Design!

Katie Xx