Kelly Bailey
Kelly Bailey is a graduate on the BA (Hons) Animation course. We asked Kelly to tell us about her experience at Derby.
Tell us about the award you've won.
I was honored to receive the Synthesis Award for my animation 'Panic' which focused on presenting the effects of the disorder agoraphobia through animation. Working on this project gave me the opportunity to speak to individuals who suffered from agoraphobia; which provided me with an insight into their lives and how they strive to overcome their fears. I believe this project will be beneficial as it gives other people a better understanding of what agoraphobia is and how it affects an individual.
What experience did you gain on your course that will help with your future career?
Throughout the 3 years on the BA (Hons) Animation course I have learnt how to use a variety of tools and software including the Adobe suite, and how to adapt these tools to create a personal voice and develop my own style. I have learnt how to interpret written testimony and transform them into visual pieces of work. The course has given me the flexibility to illustrate as well; allowing me to cross over to either subject area. This course also enabled me to apply to competitions and work placements enhancing my experience further.
What was the best part of studying at Derby for you?
The best part of studying at Derby would have to be the help and advice I received from my lecturers. They were exceptional and very useful when it came towards helping me follow the right path. They provided me with the advice and guidance I needed to improve my skills and broaden my ideas. Engaging with fellow course mates was also a significant part of studying at Derby as they allowed me to express my ideas and offered additional help and insight.
Why did you choose Derby?
Derby was the only university I really looked round; I felt drawn to it because it had it's own Art Department dedicated to developing the skills required for these courses. It was recently developed and provided all the relevant equipment essential for producing quality work. After visiting Derby I could see myself studying and working here, and for me I didn't need to see anywhere else.
What were the highlights of student life for you?
Looking back at student life, there were so many highlights. You meet so many new people, some of which you really engage with and as a result develop life-long friendships, which is always something to value. Leaving home and moving to Derby to study was a big eye-opener, you become completely independent and it really does make you realise how important some things are. Derby nightlife was also a positive, being close to the city centre with easy access to the clubs and bars and the good taxi service heightened that sense of security. Westfield shopping centre was definitely a highlight. The amount of shops in Derby was always a plus.I think the student life in general was just a highlight in itself, it's hard to pinpoint certain aspects that made it a great experience because all in all it was a great experience.
How would you sum up your experience as a student at Derby?
I felt comfortable and almost at home. I found that members of staff were approachable and friendly which made it easier to talk to them and ask for advice when I needed it. I met some interesting people, some of whom had similar career options to myself and I also met people with totally different aspirations and goals. I developed a number of relationships that made this experience even better, and is definitely an experience I don't think I will forget.
What three reasons would you give to someone to come to Derby to study their degree?
I liked the atmosphere of Derby University on the induction day and being able to see current projects whilst walking round heightened my interest in the course, I found the whole experience knowledgeable and captivating and studying here has provided me with the relevant experience and skills I need to progress my ambitions further.
Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
In a year's time I would like to see myself working in an illustration/animation company enhancing my experience which will enable me to continue learning more within this subject area.
What are you doing now?
Currently, I am in discussions with an author who is in the process of writing a book. Having seen a few samples of my work; he has contacted me to create some illustration examples that will hopefully compliment his written work.
