Course Selector
Heather heads down under
2nd July 2012
A interactive media student at Coleg Gwent’s Crosskeys Campus is set for a life down under by accepting a university place at a prestigious Australian university.
Heather Gaskell, 19, is completing her final year of a BTEC Extended Diploma which includes modules in graphic design, photography, computer animation and art & design. The student has accepted an offer to study photography at the world-renowned RMIT University in Melbourne which specialises in technology and design.
The Crosskeys student will be the first Coleg Gwent student to attend the university and is looking forward to life as an international student. The university, which is ranked in the global top 100, boasts accomplished alumni including Diana Luxton Messara who worked as part of the interior design team, constructing the Sydney Opera House.
Putting the finishing touches to her portfolio, Heather has a breadth of work including photography taken from her project work for the homeless charity, Rainbows of Hope. The project involved capturing passersby holding a piece of card with a word that made them think of home. The work was intended to contrast between the norm and the reality for the thousands of homeless people in Wales.
Heather Gaskell said: “I was really surprised to be accepted onto the photography degree course at RMIT as it is a prestigious university with lots of competition for places from across the world. Since studying interactive media at the college, I have developed a passion for photography but I’ve also enjoyed getting to grips with graphic design and computer animation. The lecturers encouraged us to be a creative as possible and constantly come up with our own interpretations of a brief.
“I am excited at the prospect of becoming an international student and having a very different experience from my peers. From my research, RMIT is similar in some ways to universities in this country, it hosts a fresher’s week and fresher’s fair but many of the activities are focused on outdoor pursuits on the beach. I’ve never been to Australia, so it really will be a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Robin Mitchell, Interactive Media lecturer at Coleg Gwent added: “We are very proud that Heather will be studying at such a well-respected university and this will hopefully serve as a fantastic launch-pad into a career in photography.
“Quite early on in the course, it became clear that Heather was particularly talented with a camera and as with all of our students we encourage them to pursue their interests and focus on their strengths. I have been working closely with Heather to develop her portfolio and personal statement and from the high standard of her work, I am not surprised that she has been offered a place at RMIT.”
For more information about courses at Coleg Gwent, contact 01495 333333, or email info@coleggwent.ac.uk.
 |
|
Coleg Gwent, The Rhadyr, Usk NP15 1XJ | Tel: +44 (0)1495 333333 | Email: info@coleggwent.ac.uk Coleg Gwent is committed to equal opportunities for all. College Policy | Data Protection | Welsh Language Scheme | Feedback| Accessibility |