Over 270 years ago, the first ever British magazine was published. Yes, in 1739,  the Scots Magazine, highlighting articles of photography, history and culture was introduced and still continues to shape people's lives to this very day. What a scary, fascinating prospect to think that this one magazine has grown to become one of thousands of magazines in print.

 

Before I grew an interest in publishing and media, I was always interested in the publications themselves, subconsciously unaware what I was reading was influencing my thought process! Years later, after studying media, I have grown to the conclusion that by attending university, I will be given an insight into the 'behind- the-scenes' of magazine publications, how they grab our attention, why they make such an impact of so many people's lives, and why billions of pounds are spent on both print and digital media. I want to learn from the professional in this landscape, and to take great pleasure learning something I love, within a subject that channels development.

 

I have studied Graphic Design at GCSE, as well as Art and Design - achieving A* in all. Furthermore, I feel both subjects have stimulated my eagerness to one day become part of a team at a magazine firm. I spent the first year of 6th Form studying Photography, Product Design and Art. Each subject has taught me not only a deeper side to art and design, but also the perspective that is market research. Putting my feet into the consumer's shoe and realising what my target market wants and needs. This aspect, I believe is crucial, especially in the world of design and publishing. 

 

I now attend Havering College of Further and Higher Education, studying Creative Media. This course has unveiled a new world to what I thought media was. Not only have I learnt skills such as animation, radio production and film production, I have been lucky enough to study the art of journalism, page layout and design - these being my favourite subjects. In my first year, I achieved a double Distinction, and distinctions in each of the design-based subjects, something I am very proud of. Moreover, I feel this is down to the fact I am constantly asking questions, asking for criticism, and wanting to find out how to push my work to the next level. Accompanied by a super enthusiastic teacher, I have built my skills, predominantly in Adobe InDesign, and Photoshop.

 

While at college, I have been given the opportunity to do things I would have never done in school. For example, in page layout, I have produced multiple layout designs to create a mini magazine. Through this, I introduced myself into the history of design and have really gained a further interest into the subject. Researching artists such as Josef Muller Brockman, the founder of modernist graphic design and also the Bauhaus movement, has undeniably shaped my work, most importantly in typography. I have been introduced to a world of Sans Serif lettering, using the font 'Futura' in most of my layouts. 

 

Awards I have won through dance include the Jack Petchey Foundation Award for Effort, and The David Rackham Award for achieving the highest GCSE grade for design.

 

In a few years' time, I would love to be working for a magazine publisher like Conde Nast as a designer, especially in the Beauty area, with the hope of progressing to an editorial role.