Ashley Thomas Designs

We've been catching up with past graduates again, this time it was the turn of Ashley Thomas, who graduated from the Surface Pattern degree in 2007.  Read her interview below, and find out more about her on her website here. 

"I choose Staffordshire University as no others seemed to specialise in Surface Pattern Design. During my degree I was mentored to bring out the best in myself. The focus was on my career and preparing me for working in the design industry. We worked on projects with respected companies such as Accessorize, Denby and Hallmark Cards.  The facilities are fantastic and the staff are always there for you when you need them. 

Since graduating I've set up my own company and I'm doing my dream job. I run my own design company and am a homeware Designer for Debenhams. I wouldn't be where I am today without the fantastic opportunities this course offers."

Ashley Thomas, Director at Ashley Thomas Ltd and Homeware Designer at Debenhams

We are looking forward to having Ashley back in March to talk to our current students when she will be giving them some valuable advice before they graduate.

Why I chose to study at Staffordshire University...

We recently caught up with Sarah Tanser, a graduate from 2011 who now works at Paper Rose Greeting Cards.  Read about Sarah's experience on the  BA (Hons) Surface Pattern Degree Course and why she chose to study at Staffordshire Univeristy below:

"I chose Staffordshire University because of its reputation within the field of Surface Pattern. At the Open Day, I was blown away by the studio and the facilities. The quality of work on the course was amazing, and the structure of the course was the best I had seen. Their connections within industry were extremely impressive.

The teaching team helped direct me towards the career I am in today, working as a Designer for Paper Rose Greeting Cards. Their depth of knowledge is remarkable. In fact, some tutors run their design career alongside lecturing, meaning they are still in the loop with industry. You’ll find that even after graduation, they are only a phone call away. This level of support makes you feel like you are always part of the Surface Pattern course.

The course technician helped me understand all the different techniques and possibilities, while my tutor was always there to help and guide me to push boundaries in my work.

I would say to any student looking to come to Staffordshire University - definitely do it! The time I spent here has been the best three years of my life so far. My course is one of the best in the country. If I could do my three years at university again, I would definitely go back to Staffordshire University. Having done this interview, I am re-living every moment with a smile."

Sarah Tanser,  BA(Hons) Surface Pattern Design – graduated in 2011 and now a Designer at Paper Rose