YEAR 13 leaver, Carrie Jia, has joined Ravensbourne University London to study Fashion Design after achieving the A Level grades she needed this summer.
We had a quick catch-up with Carrie before she started her new adventure:
Carrie, in which year group did you join King’s Ely?
“I joined King’s Ely International in Year 10 and moved from another school in Suffolk.”
Which University/Institution are you going to and what will you be studying?
“I am going to Ravensbourne University London to study Fashion Design.”
What career path do you hope to pursue?
“Anyone who knows me well will know that my passion is for the creative subjects. I have been fascinated with clothes since I was 7, when my cousin and I used to wear my auntie’s high heels and fancy dresses, even though none of the dresses fitted us! That’s how I started to love clothes and eventually fell in love with Fashion Design. After my degree, I would like to work in bridal fashion or luxury fashion and eventually set up my own brand.”
How do you think King’s Ely prepared you for University life?
“My time at King’s has taught me how to network with different people and made me realise what kind of life I want to live and where. Almost six years ago, I came to the UK alone and I had to learn English from scratch and get to know another culture that is completely different to mine.
“I had to translate almost every word to study Shakespeare (Macbeth) and at the same time I had to go to my English support lessons – and I picked up Japanese too! When I transferred to King’s Ely International, I received even more support – this has reinforced my ability to speak, write and read in English. The English support Mrs Franklin gave me was game changing, it is a shame I didn’t get to say goodbye.
“I visited so many Universities and Ravensbourne is the one that is best for me. Studying Fashion Design in London is probably the most exciting thing and I would like to thank everyone at King’s for the support I have received. I am also beyond lucky to have an open-minded family who support me to pursue my passion.”
What will you miss most about King’s Ely and what did you enjoy most during your time here?
“I will miss all the support I received from my Textiles Teachers, Mrs Rhodes and Miss Saunders, and all the opportunities we had. I will never forget when I got into Ravensbourne in February, Mrs Rhodes grabbed my arm and we were literally running and jumping into different rooms and telling all the other Art Teachers as we were just too excited!
“Mrs Rhodes helped me to find my potential and her qualities, such as people networking and problem solving, will benefit me for a lifetime. I can’t wait to come back to King’s Ely and see everyone again soon!”