From USP Student to Digital Marketer

Growing up, I had a huge passion for all things art and design. From hand-painting canvas to creating digital designs, I was always creating something. Throughout my time at school, I struggled massively with anxiety and found that art and creating was an escape and a hobby I thoroughly enjoyed. In my life, I was optimistic about my future, but unsure of what I wanted to do.

I very quickly found my feet after transitioning from school into college and after spending time looking into art and design courses I discovered the Level 3 Visual Design Extended Diploma at USP College. The course consisted of a 2-year programme which explored a range of both digital and traditional aspects found within the design industry including graphic design, illustration, art, design, and interior design.

Initially, I found the course challenging. I found the different software’s and digital tools difficult, and processes used to create work, however, with the support of my peers and my tutors this became second nature and I developed massively. Throughout the programme, I developed my creative and technical skills, and grew a greater understanding into art and design as well as gaining self-confidence and personal development within myself.

During my 2-year programme within the Visual Design study, I had the opportunity to produce a varied and sophisticated portfolio of my work produced which included all pieces of work and skills I had learnt and developed over the course which helped me to portray the high-levels of work produced.

Completing this course and receiving a distinction grade, I looked into higher courses the college had to offer and I made the decision to stay at USP College to complete the Level 4 Foundation Art Diploma. I knew that it was something I was always interested in learning more about. I very quickly settled into Higher Education and was able to take the skills I had learnt from my level 3 course and develop them further. The degree programme followed on nicely from studying Visual Design and I had a keen interest in all of the areas, and as a bonus I was able to remain at college, meaning I could keep my weekend job and continue studying whilst thinking and planning for my future career and job opportunities.

Throughout my years at USP College, I learnt many skills needed for a career in digital marketing including analytical skills, creative skills, digital design skills and critical thinking. I grew a great knowledge into a wide range of digital marketing software’s and project management tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Coral Draw. I also learnt many hand-rendered methods, including different types of print methods such as lino printing, screen printing, etching and many technical skills.

Today, I am working at Sierra Six Media, an SEO and Digital Marketing Agency, where I am completing a digital marketing apprenticeship, applying all my knowledge from my time at USP College into my studies. Within my role I assist in planning and creating marketing campaigns for clients, as well as blog writing, SEO, social media management, web design and development, and graphic design. I feel extremely grateful of the opportunity to be where I am today and an incredibly thrilled to work in such a creative and growing industry.

Digital marketing is a great career option for those who are looking for a challenging and rewarding career. With the right training and experience, you can be successful and gain an abundance of knowledge. This is a growing field, and there are many opportunities for those with a passion for digital marketing.