I enjoyed the dissertation process in my Goldsmithing, Silversmithing, Metalwork and Jewellery MA at the Royal College of Art so much that the Critical & Historical Studies tutors encouraged me to apply to do research by thesis. I went straight from the MA to the MPhil and transferred to a PhD last May.

During my MA I found out I was dyslexic, and the College was very supportive. They helped me apply for a Disabled Student Allowance, which gave me access to equipment that has been invaluable. This discovery was very important because I realised that all my previous difficulties were not shortcomings, and I have since found better ways of working.

I am based in Derbyshire and come down to London by train once a week to study – travelling time being used for reading. There are always engaging activities going on at the College, and so I still feel very much part of the community. Research is a very interesting process: you start with a broad area of knowledge and often you don’t know where it will lead, but the supervisors are there to help you find your focus.

Until I started on the MPhil, I had always been a studio-based practitioner, but now I concentrate all my time and energy into theoretical research. Being in the College keeps me connected with the making side of art, and in the future I hope to find a way to combine both my practical and theoretical interests.