If you are looking for a dynamic, innovative and s...

If you are looking for a dynamic, innovative and skills based learning experience within Art & Design then I don't think CSAD is the Uni for you. I undertook my 1st Year (and only year) at Cardiff met studying BA TEXTILE DESIGN, and was faced with a smorgasbord of issues such as STAFF SHORTAGE, CRAMPED WORKSPACES, POOR STRUCTURE & ORGANISATION, NOWHERE NEAR ENOUGH 121 OR PERSONAL TUTORIAL TIME, POOR STAFF ATTITUDE TOWARDS STUDENT SUGGESTION TO IMPROVE COURSE, POOR PRINT FACILITIES, POOR ALLOCATION OF STAFF TO 'TEACH' DIGITAL ELEMENT OF TEXTILE DESIGN, NO CORE INTRODUCTION INTO OBSERVATIONAL DRAWING AND THE ABILITY TO SEE, VERY LITTLE POSITIVE FEEBACK, LITTLE TO NO PROACTIVE ENCOURAGEMENT AT SUGGESTING ARTISTS/DESIGNERS TO EXPAND OWN CREATIVE PRACTICE & VIRTUALLY NO DEMONSTRATION OF TUTORS OWN CREATIVE PRACTICE. Having Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is difficult enough at the best of times, but having to constantly ask for technical help, with zero results, from my tutors whilst undertaking the digital aspect of Textile Design was deplorable.

However, the library and it's librarian Martha are an incredible asset to CSAD. I spent many an hour looking through all the incredible books, journals, magazines and e-documents to bolster my own creative practice. The stitch room is also another positive to be found within the course, especially the wonderful range of different sewing machines on offer.

I felt I had outgrown the full 3 year course within the first year, which is why I made the decision to transfer to a different University to finish my degree. Unfortunately the course has not lived up to expectations, and I am now having to relocate to a different city. The stress and anxiety I am facing to relocate and uproot my life has been unwanted, to say the least. However, I relish the opportunity and challenge of my new degree and know that it will allow me to grow as the designer I know I am capable to be.