An Empowering Global Programme Looking to the Future
When did you first hear about the RCA, and why did you decide to study here?
The RCA is less well known in the States, but if you’re interested in design it’s an unavoidable institution. Looking into this Programme, it seemed incredible: studying at both the RCA and Imperial; travelling with a sense of rigour and purpose — it seemed ideal. The Programme embraces the complexity of the world, it doesn’t give you hierarchy or structure, but it provides you with as much as you need to navigate that complexity yourself to create meaning. It’s the way education should be.
Can you describe what it’s like studying at the RCA?
The Programme is unique because it’s split between three countries. There is an attempt at structure, initially, but then you leave for eight months or so. We had frequent tutorials, with tutors from a wide range of fields, and regular seminars, but, when we returned, the focus really was on our solo major projects. There are skills workshops at the beginning — programming, mechatronics, design thinking — but you’re encouraged to do anything you want to. That level of autonomy was empowering.
How did your work or thinking developed while at the RCA?
Embracing complexity has been one of the biggest takeaways for me. The idea that disciplines don’t really make sense in isolation and that it’s the relationships between disciplines that give them their context and meaning, has really become apparent.Â
What was the mixture of students like? What are the benefits of being in an international community?
One of the interesting things is not so much which stereotypes are broken, but which ones aren’t. A lot of these stereotypes are rooted in different cultures, and this creates a wonderful dynamic throughout the Programme. We approached things from completely different angles but had the same goal. We had really valuable conversations and input into each other’s work.
Did it live to your expectations?
My expectations were of a fairly traditional education programme, but we didn’t get much of that at all. At first, that was a little jarring, but now I think it’s the way education should be. Industries are changing so quickly that to insist on learning one specific thing seems very short-sighted. The ethos at the Royal College of Art is, if you want to do something you have the resources available so go and do it.
What was most rewarding about your time at the RCA?
I feel honoured to have been amongst the people I was surrounded by at the RCA – brilliant and creative in so many vastly different ways. Being in the GID studio was my favourite thing.
What are your plans now you have graduated?
I’m currently working on three projects, one of which is my final major project. I’m in the process of filing for patent support for my project and eventually starting my own business.Â
Do you have any advice for students applying?
Apply. Stick with it. Whatever happens, it will be rewarding. This has been, without question, the most rewarding professional and academic experience I’ve ever had.
Find out more about MA / MSc Global Innovation Design.