We’ve recently been joined by the talented Bethan Potter who studies Graphic Design at the University of Huddersfield. She’s on placement with us for twelve months but let’s hear what she has to say about her first month at bd2…

Tell us a bit about yourself Bethan.

I’m from Wigan but I’m studying for a BA Hons in Graphic Design at the University of Huddersfield. It’s a four year course but in my third year I have the opportunity to take the year out on work placement to gain some industry experience before finishing the final year of my degree. It’s a great opportunity for me to really develop my knowledge and skills, not to mention a break from studying before the stress of the final year!

When I’m not studying I’m usually at the gym as I’ve started a new fitness regime, it’s going well so far and it’s also encouraged me to start cooking as part of my healthier lifestyle. I also love music, especially Olly Murs, and my claim to fame is John Legend recently liking one of my tweets!

So how did you come to secure your placement with bd2?

I knew early on that I wanted to work in an agency. I wanted to experience an agency atmosphere, with the opportunity to work on a variety of different tasks and client projects, whilst at the same time learning and developing my skills. I was keen to work in Wigan and was familiar with bd2, so I emailed my CV along with my design portfolio. I was delighted to be asked in for an interview with Managing Director, Will Bentley. I got a great first impression from the interview, Will seemed keen to assist and help me to shape my placement around what I want to get out of it. I was offered the placement and the rest is history!

What are you looking to get out of your placement year and your time with bd2?

I’m looking to learn as much as I possibly can. I want to gain real life experience of working in a design studio on a variety of client projects, as working at the University is completely different to working in an agency. I’m also hoping to learn more about designing for the web as this is something I’m keen to develop and isn’t something I’ve covered on my course yet. Overall I just want to improve my design skills and knowledge as much as I can.

You’ve been with bd2 for a few weeks now, how are you finding it?

I’m really enjoying it and already feel part of the team, everyone has been so welcoming and I’ve settled in straight away. The atmosphere in the design studio is great with the log burner and background music, I just wish they’d stop tempting me with food related treats, I’m staying strong though! I feel like I’m already learning so much, especially in such a short space of time. I’ve been busy working on a diverse range of projects from designing logo’s to designing a full website, I’ve even created a fully animated video in Adobe After Effects for the Business Expo event. I already feel a lot more confident in my abilities as a designer, and I’m excited to see what the rest of my placement brings.

Four weeks in and Bethan is already immersed in all things bd2. We’ll be following Bethan’s placement journey over the coming months.