Triple Distinction* BTEC Extended Diploma in Graphic Design student, Tyler Fisher, is taking a gap year before going to university. Below Tyler explains why he chose a BTEC and shares his experiences of studying at Kingston College:
I chose BTEC Graphic Design because I wanted to do a course which was more creative and skills based rather than academic as I had been building up my artistic skills prior to college and I thought graphic design would be perfect as it is a flexible subject in the working world and there is always a demand for talented graphic artists. I chose Kingston College because it was the best college for the course I wanted to specialise in.
I plan to take a gap year due to our current pandemic, and to learn some basic real-world skills and to do minor jobs just to build up my experience in different working environments, but also to prepare myself for university I am going to attend.
College is better than I expected, it felt more relaxed and fun with the tutor treating you like an adult. My overall experience was fantastic.
My advice to those wanting to join is to make sure you are prepared to do the work and pay attention to the advice your tutors give you.
I enjoyed my work experience as I had the opportunity to see what it's like to be in a real-world environment working for a company that needed posters and leaflets designed. It showed me how it’s not that simple to make an iconic design.
I have met probably the best tutors and friends you could find in such a diverse group of people - from people who are low skilled in art to highly skilled and from completely different backgrounds. So, I would say that it is possible to find friends, you just have to be confident enough to be the first person to say hello.
* Triple Distiction* (D*D*D*) is the equivalent of 3 A*s at A Level.
