Growing up in both the US and Taiwan, I studied Industrial Design as my undergraduate degree and wanted to pursue my design education further. I chose Loughborough University to pursue my master’s degree for their renowned design school. I thought it was a fantastic opportunity to expand my horizons and experience the UK, as I’d never been to Europe before, so I took the leap!
The course provided us with an abundance of practical methodologies and learning materials. The course also equipped me with the right mindset as well. We were encouraged to think beyond the brief. For example, why is this concept meaningful, what impact did it have, etc.
We also had the opportunity to work with industry as part of a coursework task. It was great to be able to get a glimpse of what it was like to collaborate with large corporations.
I found my supervisor for my final major project to be incredibly supportive and encouraging, especially when I studied there during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we couldn’t meet face to face, he was very proactive in providing feedback and guidance.
I also enjoyed the spaces within the design school. There were numerous walls used for post-it notes. The lecturers and professors were incredibly helpful and responsive whenever I had questions.
To prepare us for our future and the world of work, we were also taught numerous methodologies and when to apply those methodologies. The course encouraged us to reflect after a piece of coursework had ended; for example, what went well, what we could have done differently, etc.
This was particularly helpful when it came to industry, as design in industry moves at a faster pace, and you need to be able to ask the right questions and justify various design decisions made.
In terms of highlights of my time at Loughborough University, I particularly enjoyed the various friendships formed at the University as well as the facilities within the design school.
Loughborough University has prepared me for my future. The various coursework completed during my time at Loughborough University became a fantastic portfolio of work that helped me land my first job in the UK. I currently work for PwC UK as a product designer.
Finally, my one piece of advice I would give to someone considering studying this programme is to stay curious!