Alfie Flounders

Why did you choose to study a degree at Newcastle College University Centre? 

I chose to study this degree because I knew the space and the support at the University Centre is excellent. I came here when I was 16 and sat my Level 3 in Photography, then Stepped Up to a degree. For GCSEs, I did Digital Art and intended on doing that when I came here. When I showed my portfolio to the college staff, they advised me to do Photography instead so it was a total accident but I’ve ended up doing 5 years of it so I must like it! I love the independence of the course and being able to reflect back on the development of my skills since I started here. 

What benefits do you think there are in studying at Newcastle College University Centre?   

All the support you get for HE. I’ve spoken to people from other universities and they don't get the same level of support as we do. For example, from the Academic Support Coaches, opportunities to work with industry leads and the support from the Student Research and Engagement team. I’ve worked with them quite a lot.  

Even with Photography, as a practical subject, students from other universities have said that they don't get nearly as much practical work as I’ve had. It’s all theory, theory, theory there, but here, the vast majority of your work is practical. 

What are the facilities like at the University Centre for your course, and more broadly as a student?   

I’ve loved it. It’s good to have everything so accessible in the Mandela building. I love the photography studios - without them, it would be so much harder to get assignments done. There’s also night time access for students that work or don't have the time during the day. You can use it for personal use too, it’s not just for project work, so, you can really take advantage of the facilities the course offers. 

What do you enjoy the most about your degree? 

The one-to-one support with the tutors they are so invested in you. Not just your coursework, but you, as a person. They will get to know you as a friend and be interested in your interests and life outside of study. 

What inspires you? 

In my photography, I’m inspired by sexuality and gender. I like to explore religion too, that inspires a lot of my work. I do lots of self-portraits as I started photography in lockdown and no one in my family likes getting their picture taken so it was just me for a while. Gender bending and more creative photography is becoming more acceptable in mainstream media, so I think there’s definitely a gap in the market for the type of Fine Art photography that I love to do. 

Tell us about how you have worked with industry whilst studying your degree. 

We’ve had some really good live briefings. Last year at Level 5, we worked with Barbour International to get a year student placement, with the potential of employment at the end. They've done it again for this year's Level 5s. I hope it continues because it's a great opportunity. 

How do you think learning from industry-experienced tutors and staff has benefitted you? 

You get loads of great advice for once you’ve finished your degree. It’s hard to learn that from a book. We always get different industry stories from different tutors. You learn best on the job. 

How would you describe the staff at the University Centre? 

The staff are so genuine, they're really passionate about what they do. For them, it’s not just a job.  

Have you overcome any challenges either before or whilst studying for your degree? 

I’ve worked with the Academic Support Coaches to support my writing. When you're at the University Centre, it's a lot more creative and writing an academic essay can seem daunting, but the coaches have really helped me and made me feel like it's not that scary. It's simple once you’re used to it. 

What kinds of support have you received during your studies? 

I’ve worked with the councellors during a period of family bereavement, my tutor recommended I get in touch with them. I don’t think I'd be where I am now, without that support. 

What has been the highlight of your time studying at Newcastle College University Centre? 

The one-to-one support again, the feedback has been invaluable. Usually, you’d have to pay to get feedback from someone when you're working, but we get it for free as part of the course. I’ve learned throughout my time here that feedback is good. It’s not something to be defensive about, which can be hard when it’s a creative piece you really love. People will always have opinions and sometimes you can disagree but other times it can help you grow as an artist. 

What’s Newcastle like as a student city, in your experience?   

I love the city! I’ve grown up locally and it has a really good vibe and it’s nice to explore. There's a lot of hidden gems and it’s beautiful to photograph! 

In what ways do you think your degree at Newcastle College University Centre has prepared you for employment? 

The Employability Coaches are great and the opportunities I get through my courses are really useful too. I’ve done photoshoots with staff for headshots for CVs and LinkedIn. This degree has given me that skill set and confidence to work with people. 

What are your plans after you graduate? 

Other than taking a few months off, at some point I’ll probably continue onto a Masters degree. My lecturer did his Masters here and he has advocated for the course. Work-wise, I'd love to sell my work, like prints, books, exhibitions. I know it's going to take a few years to get my own business off the ground, so I’ll need another job alongside that. I’d like to work in a gallery or a museum so I'm looking into doing some work experience over the summer at some local ones. 

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about studying a degree at Newcastle College University Centre? 

Use everything you can. There are so many facilities on offer, so use them! Take the opportunities that are given to you. 

Describe your student experience in three words. 

Inspiring, supportive and motivational.