What to expect in your first few weeks

From the very beginning of my time at Ayrshire College I was made to feel welcome by the lecturers, and I couldn’t have asked to be included in a better class. My lecturer gave the class a tour of the campus and explained how to use the various equipment on offer in the art department.

On our induction day, we did some ice breakers to learn more about our new classmates’ interests and why they decided to come to college. Initially it helped me to realise that I was not the only person to enter college as a mature student, and I found some common ground with my classmates.

My lecturers, Julie and Peter, also gave insight into how they got into illustration and graphic design and spoke about their career backgrounds. I remember feeling their enthusiasm rub off on me, and I quickly knew that applying for HNC Visual Communication at Ayrshire College was the correct decision.

Peter, my graphics lecturer, would always be full of positive energy when teaching his classes, while introducing us to his taste of 70s pop and rock. The classes would be taught at a steady pace and be suitable for anyone who had no experience in the digital side of art and design. This helped me as I had no digital experience prior to college, and I was able to pick up the skills required to successfully pass the modules.

There was always a warm atmosphere in Julie’s classes too, where we would learn new techniques to improve our illustration skills. One of my favourite aspects of the course was that I could try many creative disciplines.

The facilities at Ayrshire College have everything you need to succeed in your course. There are printers and scanners for producing your work. The LRC is available if you want a quiet place to study. There is the canteen which serves hot food and coffees, and vending machines which can be accessed all day.

All the staff were very friendly and would always be up for a chat. I enjoyed listening to their advice and would take on board any feedback about my coursework. The lecturers noticed our artistic strengths within the first couple of weeks, and I liked that they were happy to share their opinion and willing to offer advice.

Coming to college as a mature student meant I could start education again with a new perspective. Seeing as it had been a long time since I was at secondary school, I felt I was able to set my mind on achieving success at college. I was nervous at the idea of coming back to college as a mature student, but I quickly settled into class, and I began to believe in my skills.

I would recommend to anyone thinking of coming to Ayrshire College to do it. You won’t regret it. It is the best decision I could have made and I only wished I’d done it sooner. I have already had opportunities come my way after choosing to study here, and I feel more positive about my future prospects having done so.