Ashley Forsyth (35) from Doune recently completed her BA Art and Design at Forth Valley College.
She said: “Choosing to study at Forth Valley College was a decision influenced by the covid pandemic. I had always had an interest in photography and that served as a reminder that life is too short to postpone my aspirations. Learning a skill such as photography, allowed me to build a career where I can pick and choose my own hours which gives me the perfect balance for my family.
“I have met so many wonderful people whilst studying here… lecturers Fiona, Brian, Matthew and Ewan to name a few, they have all had an impact on my learning and I am grateful for that. The facilities within the Stirling Campus building are also fantastic, having access to a large photography studio with professional equipment gave me the confidence and skills to set up my own studio.
“Studying at Forth Valley College has been very beneficial for me. It has given me both the knowledge and practical skills needed to build my business. The modules of each course is very practical and valuable and I felt supported throughout. I have also built some valuable connections that have led to future work and really boosted my confidence.
“Studying ay Forth Valley has also really helped with my career takeoff, learning units such as ‘preparing to start a business’ allowed me to research an area I wouldn’t have considered looking at, and gave me time to build marking materials that I am proud to showcase.
“I would recommend Forth Valley College and this course to anyone interested in photography or art and design. I already have recommended it to numerous people. People who are interested and successfully apply, will enjoy the practical hands on learning. The curriculum is designed to provide the skills and knowledge that will help set you up for the future.
“For me the best bit has been learning the skills I have learned and feeling like a fully competent photographer, and meeting fantastic people such as all the lecturers as well as technicians Trevor and Alex and my great friend and classmate Charles, without him I don’t know what I would have done.
“I would recommend potential students to choose Forth Valley College for several reasons, firstly everyone is so supportive, there is a great relaxed feel for a teaching environment and everyone wants you to succeed.
“I loved the end of year degree show the most, the planning, executing and the build up to it and inviting all my friends and family in to see what has been consuming all my time for the last year, made it all worthwhile.”