Meet James, a BA Graphic Design student and entrepreneur. He shares his experience of studying at Salford and how he received second place in our annual entrepreneurship competition, The Big Pitch.
What brought you to Salford?
I came to University when I was a bit older, whereas a lot of people started fresh from school. I discovered Salford through the postgraduate options, and it opened the portal to what’s available here with practical learning, facilities and cultures. I thought I may as well apply to do my undergraduate at Salford. It’s really good and lived up to my expectations, probably beyond.
Tell us a bit about your opportunity with The Big Pitch
A design agency in Leeds called Born Ugly visited our course and challenged us to sell the unsellable, such as rice or air, and make people want to buy it. I went with seeds and invented a product called Bloom Boom, which are sustainable party poppers where confetti is embedded with wildflower seeds.
One week later, I received an email about The Big Pitch, which is a competition for Salford students to receive funding for their business idea. I spent a month developing the Bloom Bloom idea as part of my module and in preparation for The Big Pitch, which was funny because the deadlines were both on the same day. I used my graphic design skills to my advantage by creating a presentation and came in second place.
Currently, as part of my final major project, I’m getting the product ready for market. This includes finalising the product branding, marketing material, the website and any related merchandise. It’s very busy!
Can you tell us something interesting about yourself away from your studies?
Two years ago, I went to meet an old friend who’s a tour guide in Tanzania. I made branding for his company where I made a marketing plan and filmed a social documentary, which I’m promoting on my social media with Frogsmock Studio.
I wanted to set myself apart and thought a portfolio project would really give me the upper hand when it came to job applications once I graduated.
What is your favourite spot on campus?
My favourite spot on campus is the New Adelphi building because there’s so many spots in there. From the photography studio, graphic design floor and the printing room. It’s a playground for adults.
Also, I like the Sports Centre because I used to be into sports, specifically boxing, but now I do a lot of swimming and yoga. I also did my coaching qualification and coach futsal at Salford.
What’s next after Salford?
Currently, I’ve been building up my freelance portfolio for a business called Frogs Mug Studio and developing Bloom Boom. The plan is to get part-time or full-time work in the creative industry and work on these two businesses until one or both make enough money for me to go full-time.
What’s your advice for future students?
If you have a certain purpose you want to follow, follow it. I tried every job under the sun, from a vet, personal trainer, engineer, and a biologist, but everything led back to graphic designing.
