Urvish Patel, India

We spoke to Urvish from India about studying at City of Glasgow College as an International Student.

I chose City of Glasgow College because of its excellent reputation in the field of graphic design and its commitment to providing a comprehensive and practical education. In India, I was pursuing an advanced diploma course at an institute in Ahmedabad, which served as a pathway program to City of Glasgow College. This allowed me to gain direct entry into Year 2, saving both time and money. I am thrilled with this opportunity and confident that the college's strong reputation and practical approach will help me further develop my skills in graphic design. 

    The personalised support provided by the faculty and my lecturers. They go above and beyond to assist each student individually, offering guidance and constructive criticism to help us improve and excel in our studies.

    I particularly remember a moment when my lecturer took the time to discuss how life was going in Glasgow. His encouragement and reassuring words made a significant impact on me. It showed that the college truly cares about its international students and understands the challenges we face while pursuing our education away from home. This kind of support means a lot and contributes to creating a nurturing and supportive learning environment.

     

         

    I chose to study at City of Glasgow College instead of in my home country for several reasons. While my home country has institutes that offer graphic design courses, some of them have a different approach to assessing students' performance. They primarily focus on assignment submissions as the sole measure of a student's capability, overlooking the need for regular performance evaluation.

    In contrast, what I appreciate most about studying at City of Glasgow College is the dedicated effort put forth by my lecturers. They go above and beyond by providing individual attention and feedback to each student. They make it a point to discuss our performance individually and address any concerns or areas for improvement. This personalised approach not only helps me track my progress effectively but also encourages me to strive for continuous growth in my skills and abilities. It is this level of commitment and attention to each student that sets City of Glasgow College apart and makes it the ideal choice for my education. 

    I chose my specific course in graphic design because it offered a pathway program from my previous institute in India. This allowed me to delve deeper into the professional aspects of graphic design and further enhance my skills in this field. What I like most about the course is its practical approach, which enables me to work on real-world projects and develop a strong portfolio. The emphasis on hands-on learning and the chance to explore various mediums such as print, visual arts, and animation is something I find truly exciting. This course provides me with the necessary qualifications to build a solid foundation for my own ideas and interpretations. Overall, I appreciate how this specific course aligns perfectly with my passion for graphic design and offers the ideal platform to further develop my skills and knowledge in a professional and creative setting.     

    After completing my HND, my plan is to continue my studies and pursue a BA (Hons) in a relevant field to further enhance my career prospects. In fact, I have already applied for further studies and am excited about the opportunity to deepen my knowledge and skills.

    Upon finishing my course and obtaining my BA (Hons) degree, my ultimate goal is to establish a successful career as an illustrator or graphic designer. I am driven to be the one who takes the lead in transforming creative ideas into tangible results, making a meaningful impact in the field of graphic design. I aspire to work with reputable design agencies, collaborating with talented professionals and contributing my unique perspective. Alternatively, I am also considering the possibility of starting my own design studio, where I can utilise the skills and experience gained during my studies to create high-quality and innovative work.

    What I love most is that despite being a city, Glasgow has areas that provide a sense of peace and calmness. It's a wonderful balance between the energetic city vibe, with its cultural events and social scene, and the opportunity to relax and unwind in a peaceful setting. This combination makes living in Glasgow truly enjoyable for me.     

    I chose to study at City of Glasgow College instead of in my home country for several reasons. While my home country has institutes that offer graphic design courses, some of them have a different approach to assessing students' performance. They primarily focus on assignment submissions as the sole measure of a student's capability, overlooking the need for regular performance evaluation.

     

    In contrast, what I appreciate most about studying at City of Glasgow College is the dedicated effort put forth by my professors, Dave, Mark, and Paul. They go above and beyond by providing individual attention and feedback to each student. They make it a point to discuss our performance individually and address any concerns or areas for improvement. This personalized approach not only helps me track my progress effectively but also encourages me to strive for continuous growth in my skills and abilities. It is this level of commitment and attention to each student that sets City of Glasgow College apart and made it the ideal choice for my education."         

    Yes, I would highly recommend City of Glasgow College to other international students. The college's reputation in graphic design and its emphasis on practical learning make it an excellent choice for students seeking a comprehensive education in this field.     

    Sure! Here are some tips for international students:

    • Immerse yourself in the local culture, attend events, and connect with fellow students.
    • Take advantage of college support services and get involved in clubs or societies.
    • Manage your time effectively to balance coursework and personal life.
    • Network with professionals in your field and attend career events.
    • Utilise career services for job placement and skill development.

     

    Enjoy your time at City of Glasgow College and make the most of your study abroad experience!