In the lead up to our 2025 Graduation we talked to Gina who will be graduating with a BA in Arts and Visual Culture.
Where did your journey to university begin?
When I first left secondary school, I decided to take a gap year. That gap year turned into 8 years, and I got to a point where I thought if I don’t go to uni now, I never will. I was 26 when I started my degree and turn 30 eight days before graduation.
I’ll be the first person in my immediate family to go to university, so it was a little daunting, but everyone was very supportive that I was going, a little less excited that I was moving 200 miles away, though.
Why did you choose Richmond and your degree?
I chose Richmond for one main reason; flexibility. The liberal arts style of degree gave flexibility in how and what I wanted to study. I have lots of different interests, so being able to combine those together made sense for me. One thing that had put me off of other universities was having all of the modules set out in stone for the full four years. And also dual accreditation gives me more flexibility now, at the end of my degree, to work or continue study in more places; it’s really opened doors.
My interest in History of Art happened by complete chance. I had wanted to take English literature and English language at A Level, but the class times overlapped, so Hist of Art was suggested to me as an alternative. I enjoy how much of a society’s worldview, political and social landscape can be seen through the visual media that it creates, and how much we can learn about the world past and present through what we see as important or beautiful enough to record visually.
The opportunity to study abroad without adding another year onto my course was also a big plus when choosing a university.
What has your experience been like, in and out of class?
Studying in London – the city becomes the classroom, and I made great friends from all around the world.
Were you involved in any clubs, societies, student groups or activities outside your course?
Res life (residential assistant and residential director), Student code of conduct committee member, Vice President, Student Book Club, Student Senate, Undergraduate Arts Representative, Student Government.
What did that add to your time here?
It gave me a chance to contribute positively to people’s time at Richmond and create a support system for people who often were a long way from home.
What are you most proud of from your time here?
Academically, my dissertation; it’s the culmination of four years of study and a piece of work that I’m incredibly proud of. I was able to integrate different passions and interests into a unique study.
Personally, winning the ACS leadership award spring ’23. I felt great to be recognised for my hard work in front of my peers.
How has Richmond shaped you?
I have definitely become more confident in my communication. As someone who was shy and hated public speaking and presenting during high school, and who is dyslexic, I wasn’t always confident in getting my point across.
What’s next for you – career, study, travel or something else?
Looking at careers in conservation and curatorship, and eventually would like to complete a masters in heritage management, conservation or curatorship. I don’t have one specific path that I feel compelled to follow and I’m keeping open to any opportunities that arise.
What would you say to someone considering studying here?
Grab every opportunity with both hands, take risks and be curious. Study what you are passionate about and try something new. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable – it’s supposed to be challenging, it’s supposed to push you.
Don’t be afraid of the road less travelled, of taking the long way or changing course.
