Jac's UWTSD Experience
Name: Jac Thomas Elsey
Course: BA (Hons) Graphic Design
Previous Studies: A-Levels: Graphic Communication, Criminology & Information Technology at Gower College Swansea
Hometown: Gorseinon, Swansea
Jac's BA Graphic Design Experience
What was your favourite thing about Swansea campus?
The facilities were incredible, spaces catered to all types of creatives. Incredible rooms for printing, thought provocation, experimenting… not to mention it’s right in the heart of the city – plenty to explore all around you.
Why did you choose UWTSD?
Its prestigious reputation among the rankings – 3rd in the UK for Graphic Design and 1st in Wales. Of course, I had previous knowledge of its great course via my college, but ultimately it was the great feel I had of the place upon visiting on my open day that put it on a pedestal for me from other universities I visited.
What did you enjoy outside your studies?
Although I did design all week at University, I also did a lot of designing outside of it, and it’s by far my biggest passion. I had two design jobs before my most recent employment with the Football Association of Wales – both in sports where I wanted to end up, and I was working with both Scarlets and Macron whilst studying.
Socialising with my family friends was a huge one for me and still is and I tried to do it as much as I could to ensure I separated myself from the working environment enough.
What are you doing now, how did you get to where you are and how has your course helped you in your career?
I currently work full-time as the sole designer for the Football Association of Wales. Before my employment here, I worked at Scarlets rugby for two years, one of them being during my studies at UWTSD. I received regular coaching and advice from my lecturers about what to do in the industry environment which helped massively.
The amazing support and education given to me on my course by my lecturers was second to none. I had gained the foundation skills all the way to advanced skills thanks to them, which allowed me to thrive in the industry environment.
The course is incredible at nurturing you for industry, not just to gain a degree.
What was your favourite thing about your course?
The diversity of modules, which allowed people like me to explore what sort of designer they’d like to be in the future. As previously mentioned, the fact that the course prepared for life outside of university, not just to gain the degree, was incredible.
I feel as if I had a real head start when starting new roles in the industry! Particularly, I enjoyed attending New Designers during my last year, where I was given exposure to my favourite designers who come from all around the world to see people’s exhibits.
This works both ways, where you are given the opportunity to explore work and meet new people from other universities!
Would you recommend UWTSD and why?
Where do I start? The lecturers, the facilities, the location, the support you’re given, the opportunities you’re led to…
Call me biased, but I can’t really see how a university course can get much better than that.
Enough said.
