HNC Graphic Design & Animation student Luke Connell has enjoyed his time at West College Scotland, studying what he is passionate about and seeing his future take shape. Keen to progress his skills, gain a recognised qualification and progress on to University, Luke wants to build upon his success outside the College and break into a career in Graphic Design.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here at the College so far, it’s pretty good – I’m particularly interested in the animation side of things. It certainly interests me the most as it’s one of the fields I hope to have a career in. Aside from that, there are things that I’ve learned here and hope to build on, which would allow me to work within the gaming industry. There are a number of jobs behind the scenes in a lot of companies that are looking for people with these skills.”

“I plan on progressing on to the HND Graphic Design & Animation course. Getting the HND would allow me to get into 2^nd year at University. I’m hoping to study an overall Graphic Design course at University – it’s a lot more applicable to a number of areas rather than something too focused. This will certainly benefit me more in the future as I’ll have a higher number of potential career avenues.“

However, Luke’s time at the College has not always been straight forward, with his first few weeks proving difficult.

“When I first started the course, I had admittedly never designed a logo from scratch. This was a real challenge when the first project was to do just that! At first I struggled to get a grasp of it all but thankfully the lecturers were brilliant and able to point me in the right direction.”

Luke has found success out with College working as a freelance Graphic Designer, working on a number of briefs that not only improved his skills, but expanded his work portfolio for prospective employers. Through this line of work, he has found himself fully immersed in the gaming industry with some of his dreams already coming true.

“In my free time, when I’m away from College work, I’m a freelance Graphic Designer. I often design stream package overlays for gamers who are streaming games on sites like Twitch. I also design small animations for calls to action such as subscribing or ‘liking’ as well as create a number of thumbnail images for videos on Youtube. I’ve also managed to venture into rebranding and merchandise designs for several Youtubers looking to branch out. “

“Some of the teams I work for behind the scenes, are sponsored by big companies like G-Fuel – a energy drink brand – and they often ship out free packages of their products out the members of the organisation so I get a lot of free things such as care packages from companies that are literally a dream to work with. I’ve also found that a few of the companies that I’d previously created adverts for had shared my work – so they were familiar with my work before I joined a gaming organisation  - it’s a nice feeling to be recognised!

Luke is full of optimism and uses his own experience to encourage others to follow what they’re passionate about.

“I want to urge anyone who’s confused about their future to just do what they want to do. Go and study what you want to, don’t be forced into anyone else’s ideas. Think about what really interests you and go from there. For me, I made stuff related to my main interest – gaming – and posting that online. That way when you go for any College Interview, you know exactly what you’re talking about and that’ll come across. Having examples to show will really help you out.”

“I’d really recommend the College. It’s provided me with a great opportunity to get a solid, recognised qualification which will help me get into the career I want. There’s also a great chance to meet new friends and network with other people, something that will help you later in life.”

Our course applications are still open!

To find out more and apply for a Graphic Design Course, click here.