Lauren Illustrates a New Passion for Learning on Graphic Design Course

SERC Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND in Graphic Design student Lauren Hegan (19), from Donaghadee has discovered her passion for education while studying at SERC. 

After completing her GCSEs, Lauren realised school was not for her. Knowing she wanted to follow a creative pathway, she researched online and found out about graphic design courses at SERC. Lauren’s sister, a past SERC student, recommended the college to Lauren, which encouraged her to enrol. At SERC Lauren completed her Level 3 Technical Diploma in Art and Design (Graphic Design and Illustration), before moving on to the Pearson BTEC HNC in Art and Design - Digital Design. She is now currently in the process of completing the HND in Graphic Design course at the college. 

Lauren says, “I hated school, but since starting SERC I've begun to realise how much I love education. Graphic design has such a broad job market – different places require different design skills – and it’s great that the HND course makes you well-rounded in all types of design areas, from motion graphics to illustration and even photography. My favourite work in class is anything to do with illustration – we have had to do projects which involve designing different illustrations and I love to work on them, especially brand designs. I think it’s great because when I eventually apply for a job in graphic design the employers will appreciate all the experience I have across multiple design areas. 

“I also really enjoy the social aspect of my course, I have lots of friends here, which is important in a creative course where your mood affects the quality of work you create. It’s a really motivating environment to learn in.” 

Of her plans, Lauren says, “I’m considering university at the moment; I feel it would be a good next step for me, and I would be able to go straight into the second year of the course thanks to the HND.  It is also possible to get a job after completing an HND, so it’s great to have both employment and university as options.” 

Lauren concludes, “To anyone considering SERC and thinking of doing any of the courses I’ve done, I would simply say do it! SERC is the best thing that’s ever happened to me, I love it so much. It feels like I’m treated with respect here, and there’s a lot of support available from the tutors. I’ve been recommending SERC to all my friends still in school as well.  It’s the best environment for education I’ve ever experienced.”