FREE Mini Course #RockYourDegree

It's almost a year since I left my role as Senior Lecturer back in the UK to move to Iceland. In that time I've achieved so many goals that were on my To-Do list but there was a 'Student Advice'. I wanted to form an output, a way of offering my answers to all those questions previously asked to me and pass on the same advice to other students. So I got typing and created my first email course. 

It simple. You sign up for the FREE emails and you will immediately be sent Day 1 of the 5 Day email course. The course runs over 5 days so you'll get an email each day. Each email focuses on a different topic and they're packed with information and useful links. I hope you get loads out of this email course so let's get started and #RockYourDegree

DAY 1 - Clear Your Space, Clear Your Mind

• How to be organized and focussed

• How to best storage equipment and materials

• How to store stock for online shops, i.e. Etsy

• The importance of storing and keeping all student project work

• What to do with physical models, saving and backing up digital work

• Online Portfolio

DAY 2 - Inspiration + Motivation

• How to stay focussed, inspired, and motivated

• How to create moods boards and sketchbooks

• The importance of evidencing your design process within the sketchbook

• How to get in the habit of using the Library

• Sorting your Instagram feed to reflect you as a designer

• Pinterest

• The benefits of teamwork and a study group

• How to look after number 1

DAY 3 - Plan + Prepare + Present

• How to be organized so stress doesn't get the better of you

• Staying onto of dates and deadlines

• The Library

• Apps to help you stay organized in project management

• How to prep your mind, space, supplies, and food ready for any project or challenge

• Presentation tips for before, during, and after your presentation

• What is professionalism

• What to do if you fail

DAY 4 - Communication, Connections, Collaborations

• Communication and note-taking

• How to contact faculty (your lecturers)

• Writing academic work

• LinkedIn

• Your online presence

• Networking

• How to get the most out of Uni social events

• How to approach an office for help, internship, or employment

DAY 5 - Let’s Get Real

• The course finishes with a bit of perspective on studying and graduating

• And...ideas on how to show off your skills and stand out from the crowd

Project Brief: My Room, My Interior

Are you preparing your Art & Design portfolio for college or university? This creative assignment is perfect for anyone applying to study:

• Interior Design

• Interior Architecture

• Architecture

• Modelmaking

You’ll be using found objects and recycled materials to build a scale model of your bedroom - a brilliant way to demonstrate your spatial awareness, creativity, and hands-on making skills.

Why modelmaking matters

Modelmaking is a powerful skill that helps communicate and develop design ideas. Whether you’re pursuing architecture, interiors, or product design, the ability to physically represent your ideas will set your portfolio apart.

And yes, you can start with cardboard.

What is Modelmaking?

Modelmaking is more than just crafting - it’s a discipline in its own right. Students studying Modelmaking typically complete a 3-year degree learning to produce both physical and digital models.

Modelmakers go on to work in:

• Architectural and interior design studios

• Product development and prototyping

• Museum exhibitions and installations

• Film and TV (think set design and special effects)

It takes time, patience, and precision, but it’s also a lot of fun. And showcasing this in your portfolio proves you’re serious about spatial design.

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What You’ll Need:

Don’t overcomplicate this - reuse materials and keep it simple. Here's your checklist:

• Time and patience (this is not a rush job!)

• Craft knife (sharp blade = cleaner edges; always cut safely)

• Cutting mat (protect your surfaces)

• Glue (UHU works well; PVA is okay but may warp)

• Metal ruler (plastic ones split and slip, ouch)

• Material (ideally cardboard, mountboard, or cereal boxes - stick to one colour if you can. White or neutral looks more professional.)

• A bedroom (yours, or one you’re familiar with)

Step-by-Step: Build a Model of Your Bedroom

You’re going to build a 3D model of your bedroom in miniature. This is how spatial designers bring ideas to life.

Start with a sketch | Draw your bedroom’s floor plan - this will guide the scale and placement of your walls, windows, and doors.

Build the basic structure | Cut and assemble the walls to match your sketch. Add windows and doors by cutting them out of the wall panels.

Furnish the space | Now build miniature furniture - your bed, wardrobe, desk, shelves, chair, mirror, etc. Use simple shapes and stick to scale.

Add details | This is where your model shines. Fold paper to mimic bedding, curl it for curtains, create tiny books, electronics, rugs, or even a dressing gown on a hook. Be imaginative.

Include a scale figure | Cut out a small person (you) to stand in the room. Use the door height to guide the proportions.

Pro Tip: Use only white or one colour of material and mount your model on a larger base. It gives a clean, architectural look even if it’s made from cereal boxes.

How to Present Your Model in a Portfolio

Since the model might not survive your travels, document it clearly:

• Take photos from multiple angles:

  Top-down (plan)

  Front (elevation)

  Side-on (perspective)

• Include an object for scale reference (like a pencil or ruler)

• Consider making a step-by-step collage or progress page

• Add a short write-up or labels explaining key elements

Save everything into an A3 layout or digital PDF to include in your portfolio.

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Project Brief: Handmade Sketchbook

Create a unique, recycled sketchbook to strengthen your Art & Design portfolio

Looking to boost your Art & Design portfolio for a college or university application? This project invites you to design and make your own handmade sketchbook using recycled materials to create something entirely your own.

Whether you're applying for Interior Design, Architecture, Modelmaking, or any creative degree, showing off your skills in a well-crafted, custom sketchbook will help your application stand out. It's practical, sustainable, and a great conversation starter in interviews.

Why Sketchbooks Matter

Sketchbooks are essential tools for artists and designers. They’re used to record ideas, test concepts, explore materials, and document creative journeys. If you pursue a creative career, you’ll likely fill hundreds of them.

But before you fill a sketchbook with work - why not make one from scratch?

This Project Is Perfect For:

• Art & Design students

• Modelmaking applicants

• Interior Design and Interior Architecture students

• Aspiring Architects...or anyone who wants to show initiative, creativity, and craftsmanship in their portfolio.

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What You’ll Need:

• Recycled materials: cardboard, cereal boxes, newspaper, old wrapping paper, paper bags, etc. (Tip: Variety adds interest.)

• Thread, yarn, wire, or cord, anything strong enough to bind the pages.

• A large needle for stitching the spine.

• Scissors or a craft knife and adult supervision if needed

Step-by-Step: How to Make Your Handmade Sketchbook

Design your cover | Choose your outer material and decide the size and shape of your sketchbook. Fold it in half to form a front and back cover. Cut into the cover if you’d like windows, shapes, or other design details.

Gather your pages | Mix and match your paper. Use plain, patterned, textured, and even printed materials to add variety. Don't worry about perfection, creativity is the goal!

Bind your book | Stack the pages inside your cover. Use your needle and thread to sew them together through the spine. Punch holes as needed and bind with a simple stitch. Messy stitches are part of the handmade charm.

Add interactive design details | Cut shapes, windows, or doors into the pages so that one layer leads to another, perfect for storytelling, branding, or thematic projects. Think about layering, negative space, and even hidden pages!

Personalise it | Add your name, logo, or brand colours. This is your sketchbook, so let it reflect your style. Be bold. Be intentional. Be you.

Final Tip: Photograph your finished sketchbook from multiple angles and include it in your portfolio. Document the process too, it shows initiative, design thinking, and craftsmanship.

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How To Use A Scalpel, Cut Material + DIY Sharps Box

Cutting materials by hand is an important skill for a student or young designer, especially in Interior, Architecture, and Model Making. You should learn how to use a surgical blade, craft knife, or scalpel properly to create clean cuts and neat edges to your material, but also to make sure you are not causing yourself any injuries in the cutting, storing, and replacing of your knife and blades. 

1. Always use a cutting mat

The surface of any table is not adequate and you may damage it. This will then cause cut lines in the surface so when you come to draw, the surface is no longer smooth. 

2. Invest in good knifes

There are many to choose from such as Xacto knife, craft knife, surgical knife, etc. Don't just pick up a cheap packet, invest in a good knife and a few packets of replacement blades. 

3. Rulers & Cutting edges

Make sure to always use a metal edge, a long metal ruler is best. I have a few metal rulers of differing lengths. When model making, I use a ruler which will be longer than any material I am cutting. I also tape a length of masking tape to the underside to help give it a grip on the material I am cutting. Do not use a plastic ruler as the blade can slide into it leading to you cutting yourself or the ruler’s straight edge being damaged.

4. Safety first

Keep your fingers back from the edge of the ruler when cutting. Try to stand up when cutting your material and make sure to always be looking at your work. Press firmly on your ruler to hold it in place on the material. Press down on each stroke when cutting with the knife. Never cut through the material is one cut, use 2-3 strokes (a thick card, foam core, etc) to get a cleaner edge. Don't rush. 

5. Fresh blade and often

Replace the blade often to ensure clean cuts and dispose of the old blade in a sharps box. Either wrap in masking tape or better yet, make a DIY sharps box.

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University Advice: What Is Best For You?

As a Senior Lecturer, I've spent years guiding students through the complex decisions that come with higher education. One of the most frequently asked questions I receive is about choosing the right path—whether it’s selecting a university, college, or subject choice.

This blog post explores how to make the best decisions for you, free from external pressures or influences. Remember, this is your future, and it’s crucial to make choices that align with your own goals and interests.

If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below or reach out on Instagram, I’m here to help.

How to Make Higher Education Decisions Without External Influence

Choosing a university or college and deciding on a subject (major) are some of the most significant decisions you’ll make in your academic life. It’s easy to get swayed by the opinions of others-parents, friends, or societal expectations. However, to truly thrive in your educational journey, you need to make decisions that resonate with your aspirations and strengths.

Here’s how you can do that:

Understand Your Interests and Strengths

The first step in making an informed decision is to understand what excites you. Ask yourself:

• What subjects do I enjoy the most?

• What activities make me lose track of time?

• What are my strengths, both academically and personally?

By identifying your passions and strengths, you’ll be better equipped to choose a field of study that aligns with your true interests, leading to a more fulfilling university experience.

Research Potential Careers

Once you’ve identified your interests, explore the careers that align with them. Look into:

• Job prospects in your chosen field

• Potential salary ranges

• Long-term career growth and opportunities

• Work-life balance and job satisfaction in those roles

This research will help you understand the practical implications of your choices, ensuring that your decision isn’t just based on passion but also future opportunities.

Consider Different Educational Paths

Not everyone’s ideal path involves a traditional university experience. I started at College and later attended University and then did internships. Consider alternatives such as:

• Community colleges or technical schools

• Online courses or boot camps

• Apprenticeships or internships

These options can provide valuable education and skills without the need for a four-year degree and may be better suited to your career goals.

Visit Campuses and Talk to Students

If you’re leaning towards a particular university or college, take the time to visit the campus.

• Attend open days or information sessions

• Speak with current students about their experiences

• Sit in on a class or two to get a feel for the academic environment

This firsthand experience can provide insights that brochures and websites simply can’t.

Seek Guidance but Make Your Own Decision

It’s natural to seek advice from family, friends, and mentors, but remember that this is your journey. While it’s important to listen to different perspectives, the final decision should reflect what you want and need. You might be the first in your family to attend University, your parents might have had a bad experience, and they might be worried about student loans and the cost of an education. Try not to be swayed by biased options.

Trust Your Instincts

Trust your gut. Your intuition is a powerful tool in decision-making. If a certain path feels right to you, even if it’s not the most conventional choice, trust yourself. Your higher education journey is about discovering what works best for you, not fitting into someone else’s expectations.

And yes, it is possible to switch courses if that’s the right decision for you-speak to your course leader.

Deciding on your higher education path is a process that requires self-reflection, research, and a bit of courage. By focusing on your interests and strengths, exploring different educational paths, and trusting your instincts, you can make decisions that will lead to a fulfilling academic and professional future.

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University Advice: Lectures, Seminars and Social Life

How to Navigate Academic Life and Build Your Social Circle at College or University

As a former University Lecturer, I've seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities that await students as they transition to College or University. Whether you're wondering about the different teaching methods like lectures, seminars, and group work, or you're curious about how to make friends and establish a vibrant social life, I've got you covered.

What to Expect Academically at College or University

Understanding Different Teaching Methods

Lectures: These are large classes led by a professor where you'll cover essential course material. Lectures are typically where you'll be introduced to the main concepts and theories in your field of study.

Seminars: Smaller, discussion-based classes where you can dive deeper into topics covered in lectures. Seminars are a great opportunity to engage in debates, ask questions, and develop critical thinking skills.

Papers and Essays: Writing is a key component of higher education. You'll be expected to write essays and research papers, often requiring you to argue a point or analyse a topic in depth. Good writing skills are essential, so be prepared to spend significant time developing them.

Group Work: Many courses will involve collaborative projects, especially architecture. Group work helps you develop teamwork skills, manage different perspectives, and produce a final product as a collective effort.

Effective Learning Strategies

Balancing lectures, seminars, and assignments can be challenging and you will develop good time management. Using a planner or digital calendar can help you keep track of deadlines and allocate time for studying.

Active participation in seminars and group work will come over time as your understanding and confidence grows. Asking questions and contributing to discussions not only enhances your understanding but also makes you more memorable to your lecturers and professors.

Effective note-taking during lectures is crucial. Develop a system that works for you- look into the Cornell method, mind mapping, or simply highlighting key points.

Building a Social Life at College or University

Making Friends and Expanding Your Network

• Join Clubs and Societies. Colleges and universities offer a wide range of student clubs and societies. Joining one that aligns with your interests is a great way to meet like-minded people and build friendships.

• Attend Social Events. Freshers' Week, campus events, and student gatherings are perfect opportunities to socialise. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and introduce yourself to new people.

• Living Arrangements. Whether you're living in a dorm, shared housing, or commuting, your living situation can significantly impact your social life. Dorms and shared housing often provide built-in social circles, while commuters may need to make an extra effort to connect on campus.

READ: University advice, campus life…

Balancing Social Life and Studies

It's easy to get caught up in the social scene but remember why you're at College or University. Prioritise your academic responsibilities while still making time for social activities. Set healthy boundaries and learn to say no when you need to focus on your studies. It's important to strike a balance between enjoying your social life and staying on top of your academic work. College life can be overwhelming at times. Make sure to take care of your mental and physical health by getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking breaks when needed.

Navigating the academic and social aspects of College or University can be challenging, but with the right strategies and mindset, it can also be incredibly rewarding. By understanding the different teaching methods and actively participating in your education, you'll be well-prepared for academic success.

At the same time, making an effort to build a social life will enrich your experience and help you create lasting memories.

Enjoy every minute, even the tough ones.

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