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Karoline Winzer

Profession
BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design
College
London College of Communication
Person Type
Student
Karoline Winzer

Biography

Now in her second year, Karoline moved from the USA to study BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design. In her profile, she discusses transitioning into University life, and how the Peer Mentoring Scheme has support her learning.

Interview

Why did you choose to study BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design and why London College of Communication?

I chose Graphic and Media Design (GMD) because it is a multifaceted course that allows you to experiment with a lot of different media, processes, and prompts.

I chose LCC because of its facilities that let you explore different disciplines and because I was looking for an exciting experience in the heart of central London.

What have you enjoyed most about studying your course so far?

The thing I have enjoyed most about studying on my course is the varied projects and briefs we are given.

Every project is different, and you can take the briefs into so many different specialisms and media.

Has the course included any involvement with industry?

BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design has a lot of industry events and teaching that extends outside the classroom.

For example, LCC has a guest lecture series that is open to all students, and in our second year, the modules Professional Practice and Diploma in Profession Studies have weekly talks from designers, as well as live briefs.

Our tutors also try their best to get us out of the classroom; we’ve gone hunting for typography in Southwark, taken a trip to Margate, and visited Tate Modern.

What advice would you give to a prospective student moving from abroad?

First of all, be very proud of yourself. It’s not an easy thing to do, and this decision is going to change your life for the better in a lot of amazing ways.

It’s going to be hard at first, but keep your head up. It helps to set small tasks for yourself every day, like exploring part your area, saying hello to a flatmate, or taking the route to university.

Secondly, the LCC is there to help. If you are unsure of how to deal with bank accounts, bills, or oyster cards, ask at the Information Centre or check out the University website for more information.

Even if you just want to hang out in the building and get used to the space, do that, or ask to get involved in the peer mentoring scheme.

Lastly, talk to people. Even if you don’t want to or you’re scared to, it really helps to have conversations and to find people you get along with.

Can you tell us a little bit about your experience with the peer mentoring scheme?

I was matched with a mentor from my course after completing a survey from the peer mentoring administration team.

Most students are matched with mentors from their course, however if a mentor is available you may be matched with a student from another course.

I met with my mentor periodically to discuss my course projects and my transition into university life.

She was also able to help me understand more about my course and my course projects based on her own experience. Having a mentor helps to build confidence, meet new people, improve anything you need help with, and understand your course and university better.

Mentors are also students just like you, they have similar experiences and understand where you are coming from and how to help.

What have you gained from your experiences as a mentor?

As a mentor, I have learned a lot about teaching and organisation, and really enjoy being able to help and reassure students who are going through the same things I did when I was in their shoes. You also get to meet amazing mentees who do such awesome work!

Related area

Visit the BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design course page.

London College of Communication

Contact

Telephone

+44 (0)20 7514 6500

Address

Elephant & Castle

London
SE1 6SB