Hanrong

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

My name is Hanrong and I come from China. I’m a student from MA Design January cohort. Now I specialized in digital and interactive design. I’m an outgoing girl and I like to communicate with others. I am willing to help others too, so I’m the student rep of my course. During my undergraduate study, I majored in Industrial Design.

What made you want to apply to your course and to Leeds?

Within four-year schooling experience in Industrial Design, I am deciding to apply for high-level study in design majors overseas. At that time, I just knew that I want to learn more knowledge about design and get in touch with all kinds of design categories. When I saw the course outline of the University of Leeds, I found that it is the most suitable course for me. In the course, I have the ability to learn about six types of design and I could choose one as a main research direction. It is a unique opportunity than other universities. The background and the fame of our university make me more determined to apply.

What is it that makes you passionate about your area of study?

I think design is never boring. In every new project, design can be related to other majors and skills. Therefore, in order to better research and complete the project, I need to learn more knowledge about other fields at the same time. The completion of each project is an improvement and breakthrough for me. 

What aspects of the course do you enjoy the most?

Based on the knowledge imparted by the professors, further research and study is the most interesting part for me. And from that, I can try different ways to complete my project. I really enjoy this process. 

Have you worked closely with a particular tutor or member or the University’s academic staff? Tell us about that experience.  

I have courses with the same teacher every semester and he is also my personal tutor. Because I am a student rep, I always have the ability to see him in some school meetings. So, no matter from the perspective of professional study, daily life, school life, etc., he has given me full help and care. It is worth mentioning that he is enthusiastic and serious about every student.

What other activities are available for students to take part in outside of their studies, and which ones have you tried out yourself? 

The students can go to the school gym for exercises. It is in the school, so it’s very convenient for us to do some sports after class. In our school, we have a student organization called Leeds University Union. LUU will hold all kinds of activities for the students, for example, parties, language zone, sports events, health and wellbeing support and so on. I have tried the climbing event held by LUU. And I also exercise in our school gym.

What do you plan to do when you’ve finished your course, and how do you think the skills and knowledge you’ve developed so far at Leeds will help with these plans? 

I didn’t decide what to do exactly and I will consider finding a job or applying for a Ph.D. degree after graduation. Whether looking for a job or applying for a Ph.D. degree, I will work in fields related to my postgraduate studies. So, the knowledge learned from MA Design is very important for both situations. 

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying to your course? 

If you want to have more chances to find a specific design field, MA Design course is a very good choice. The diversity of the course makes it more flexible and comprehensive. All the tutors are responsible and willing to give their advice and help to every student.