Guendalina's journey at QMU began when her manager at Art Angel, an organisation that supports people with mental health issues through the arts, announced her plans to retire. In order to prepare to apply for the position, Guen knew she needed to expand her knowledge and qualifications. Anthony Schrag, the course leader for PgCert / MA in Applied Arts and Social Practice, provided immediate warmth and guidance, solidifying her decision to join QMU. Throughout her studies, she revelled in every aspect of her course, from the engaging lectures to the thought-provoking class discussions. Having now completed the course, Guen has found the confidence to pursue the managerial role, thanks to the skills she acquired during her time with us.
Why did you choose to study at QMU and what attracted you to the course?
For 6 years I have been working as a freelancer for Art Angel, a charitable project that helps people with mental health issues through the arts. Last year my boss announced that she would be retiring in the spring of this year. Following my interest in considering the position, she suggested that I apply for this course because it would give me the necessary knowledge that I was missing.
I was very undecided about which course to consider between Applied Arts and Social Practice and the related Arts, Festivals and Cultural Management, so I decided to contact Anthony Schrag, the head of both courses. The response was immediate and very warm, and we were able to organise an online meeting that immediately put me at ease. The worries I had about the commute from Arbroath, where I'd be travelling from, disappeared and…here I am.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
it is hard to say because I have enjoyed every minute of it: the atmosphere, the lecturers, my classmates, the campus.
Were there any particular course activities you found especially interesting?
"I particularly liked the conversations in class because they were moments in which I could reflect on the lesson taught through the opinions of others, questioning myself and my point of view."
Those were the deepest moments of reflection. I really get a lot done when I'm not alone trying to understand a topic and I learned a lot from everyone.
How did your lecturers support your learning?
They were always available to help with any questions, most of the time answering very quickly.
What challenges did you face with the course and/or university life?
The commute from Arbroath to the QMU campus was more challenging than I had expected due to cost and the length of the journey, but it truly was worth it.
Did you take part in a placement as part of your course and if so, can you tell me a little about that experience?
I applied for the WISeR project and I was lucky enough to be selected. That gave me an incredible experience of intense collaboration with one of my classmates and two different organisations in the Craigmillar area while I was working on my Social Practice module. I have had a real and full experience of what it means to work with people.
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in this course?
Don’t be shy and make contact with the lecturers: they are extremely welcoming and helpful. If in doubt, ask because you might be surprised by how worthy this course is.
"It is an incredible experience that offers the practical and theoretical tools needed to become independent in this field."
Did you join any schemes or initiatives to enhance your learning and development?
I decided to be a class representative which helped me understand the effort of the lecturers, especially Anthony Schrag, to shape the course in a way that is more suitable for everyone, effective and of the highest standard, always ready for feedback and possible constructive criticisms to make the course better.
What’s your ‘top tip’ for making the most of being a student?
The time on the course, while intense, is short. Try to immerse yourself in the student experience and campus life as much as possible. There are a lot of opportunities you can benefit from. Unfortunately, I was too far away and had family and work commitments, so I couldn't spend as much time on the campus as I would have liked. However, I still thoroughly enjoyed the course.
What was the most valuable lesson that you learned at university?
The value of research and how to use the school's resources and those given by teachers. And, even though I already knew, that collaboration is an added value and I was very lucky to find incredible classmates, even if I have attended a part-time course and was far away so I experienced less of the social aspect of the group.
Can you tell us about your life post-graduation?
Thanks to this course, I had the confidence to apply for the manager position where I was working and was successful. I honestly couldn't ask for more.
Any tips for those considering the course?
Just do it!
