Student Spotlight - Nicole McMahon
The creative sector continues as a key driver to the local and national economy, contributing richly and fundamentally to cultural identities, so with our help, you could be on your way to a successful career within one of the most rapidly growing sectors. The creative economy also contributes to the overall well-being of communities, individual self-esteem and quality of life.
Having just completed a creative course at UHI Perth, Nicole chatted to us about her experience.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Nicole McMahon, and I am from Perth, Scotland
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I have just completed a course in BAH Visual Communication and Design.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I heard about UHI Perth because I was born, raised and live in the Perth area.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
After high school I began a career in visual merchandising in the retail fashion industry before working as cabin crew for a commercial airline.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I chose Visual Commuincation and Design because I am a creative person with an eye for detail and logical thinking.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about this course was the opportunity to choose projects that align with my passions.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
There are many memorable moments, though if I was asked to choose, I would say the opening night of my graduate showcase where I displayed my major final project “Vacant Spaces”.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I have gained a network of contacts that will enable the progression of my career.
Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
During year two (HND), I had the opportunity and the pleasure to work for a local magazine as the creative director run by Heartland FM.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
My lecturers were incredibly supportive during my studies and will encourage any aspiring visual communication and design students to apply for UHI Perth.
You have just successfully finished your end of year graduate showcase – ‘Visualise’ at the Creative Exchange in Perth. How did it go? What did your final project consist of?
My end of year graduate showcase “Visualise” at the Creative Exchange was a huge success. My major final project “Vacant Spaces” was created after I developed an interest in the environmental and social aspects surrounding abandoned buildings and over-population. I used photography to document the several unused buildings in Perth, drawing focus to the extent of the phenomenon in this area. The black and white photographs I have created visually emphasise subject matter in the individual frames while the series forces attention on the narrative of the issue. You can order a copy of my book by contacting me through my instagram: @nm_design_photos
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
As a third year, I had the opportunity to display my on-going project “Abandoned House” at the 2024 end of year graduate showcase - also at the Creative Exchange.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
I enjoy the campus grounds at UHI Perth. It was easy to enter nature, to break away from work and enjoy the outdoors.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I enjoyed studying at UHI Perth even as far back as my first year (HNC) induction day, the lecturers took us to the opening exhibition of the V&A Dundee which truly set the tone for the year.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
Some of my hobbies align with my studies such as art, design and photography though outside of my studies I enjoy travel, walking, cycling and swimming.
What are your future career plans?
As it stands, I have accepted an offer from the University of Dundee to study a one-year course in MSc Spatial Planning with Sustainable Urban Design with the intentions of starting a career in spatial planning local to Perth soon after.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
My advice to someone thinking about studying would be do what makes you happy!
