I’ve always loved design, and especially being dyslexic and not being able to read for a long time when I was a child, I took to design as escapism. At school, I loved art and wanted to be an artist – I wasn’t good enough to do it, I just loved how it made me feel so happy.
There’s a lot that intertwines with design. I began to love English because I loved the illustrations in books, which then encouraged me to read more. When I went into college to study design, I found there was so much more like digital design which I had never explored. In school, design was always just very tactile with pen, paper, and paints. I began to explore graphic design, fashion design, and illustration.
“I was excited and overwhelmed that I could actually be a part of this, and I can do my dream job on my doorstep.”
By the time I got to university I considered myself to have more of a diplomatic style of design. I loved the idea of creating ideas and concepts, but was surrounded by amazing designers and I knew that wasn’t me. I enjoyed the process, research, speaking to people, and brainstorming ideas and tactics. I never really took it as a serious career until I was at university when I realised there were load of avenues that design dips into.
My first thoughts after studying were ‘how on earth am I going to get a job where I’m in design but I’m not in design?’ So, when I got this job and saw the team, the office, and the amazing work that everyone does, I was excited and overwhelmed that I could actually be a part of this and do my dream job on my doorstep. I was so scared of screwing up and getting it wrong – but to then get recognition so early on, it was amazing. I am having the best time here. I love coming in every week, and that’s so important with any job.
“I wish I could tell my younger self to not feel pressured to try and be the perfect designer, or compare myself to others.”
I am in a unique position where I was able to hit the ground running. I have learned a lot about client relations and making the most of meetings. Having a background in design has given me an edge. I understand where the clients coming from and what their goals are. I have a new confidence to use my design knowledge to help them on their journey.
I wish I could tell my younger self to not feel pressured to try and be the perfect designer, or compare myself to others, because all that did was hinder me. Working in this environment you see everyone as an individual, and everyone has their own design style and strengths. I have realised that I need to enjoy what I am doing and push myself further. And I am grateful to be in a space I can do that. I can really push my ideas and concepts and bounce off the amazing designers here in the studio. But I don’t regret any of it because all of it has led me here!
