Constance Bobin
Leather Technology (Professional) MSc
View the course- Year of study: First year
- Length of course: Two years
Why did you choose your course at UON?
It was a natural progression from my BA in Footwear & Accessories, which I also studied at UON and I wanted to further my knowledge and interest in leather technology. The industry links through the lecturers and staff were also a big draw to the course.
What aspects of the course do you enjoy the most and why?
How much opportunity there was within the ICLT – the tests I was interested in undertaking in the tannery were possible. The amount of support and knowledge, combined with all the lecturers and staff within the ICLT, is fantastic and there was always someone who could support me when I had further enquiries within my studies.
Do you do any extra-curricular activities while at UON?
Yes, I will be the president of the Corium Club Society as of April 2023.
How will these extra-curricular activities enhance your career prospects?
People already in the industry are invited for guest lectures, dinners and events – being able to connect and network with them in person will enhance my career options after I graduate.
How do you think your studies will help your career or personal development?
Being allowed to question and trial new ideas has encouraged me to continue to challenge and look at things from different perspectives regarding what’s possible with leather. I’ve always enjoyed experimenting with new ideas and the staff at the ICLT encouraged and embraced that. My studies in both my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees have encouraged me to push myself further academically, as well as in my personal life. I think both of these characteristics can be positive attributes for my future career.
Describe your career progression so far, and any plans you have for the future. Are there any particular hurdles you may face?
Whilst studying for my MSc, I’ve been thinking about going into industry and finding my niche. After this, I aim to return to education and complete a PhD – I’m keen to return to the ICLT at UON to do this.
Which, if any, skills and knowledge/understanding gained on your degree will be most useful when you graduate?
Questioning and challenging what has been done and rising to the challenge of finding different, or better, ways of doing what you’re working on. Being able to think further than what has been presented to you is an essential skill that will give me an extra edge within both my working and personal life.
In one sentence, what advice would you give to undergraduates interested in this career path or anything you wish you had known earlier?
During your studies, speak to as many staff and students as you can to ask questions and discover more from. Also, I wish I’d known that there were short summer courses that the ICLT run every year that I could have enrolled on to further my knowledge before I started my studies. In regards to opportunities, I highly recommend getting involved with relevant societies and keeping up-to-date with what’s going on in the industry.
In ten words, or less, how would you summarise your UON experience so far?
A highly supportive and encouraging environment to study in.