Full of opportunity
ARU welcomed me with open arms and really saw my potential.
I am a transfer student from another university. I chose my original university for its amazing facilities. I am a Fine Art student, so I looked for the size of the printmaking room, photography studios and dark rooms, as that is what I use.
Within the first two or three weeks I realised that there was a reason for having a huge print room and loads of facilities: to accommodate the 86 students on the course in my year, and the 203 people in years 2 and 3.
I quickly realised that because I wasn’t the loudest, I didn’t get the attention I needed from tutors to progress my work. So I began to look at other options.
ARU is my local university and the best place for me.
My course tutors at Cambridge School of Art, Rob Holyhead and Benet Spencer have helped me develop as a person, and made me feel confident about the work I produce. I promised them I would work hard and they have supported me so much. I now love what I do.
Making friends was easy, as it was a small year of 30 people. I have learned that staying near home doesn’t mean your university experience has to be any different. As an artist, my work has never been stronger and I am excited to be doing my dissertation next year on something I am truly passionate about.
I am a stronger person for getting through that first year, and have the experience to know where I want to be and what I want to do. I want to become an art teacher and influence young, creative people to make any choices they wish, and be proud of the work they make.
I have ARU to thank for creating this opportunity for me.
Kira Barnard, BA (Hons) Fine Art