BIO
Name Cathal Mathers
Current place of study Ulster University studying BDes (Hons) Interaction Design
Origins Newry born and bred
Why did you want to work for SRC?
I’m a former student of SRC having previously studied a foundation degree in Interactive Multimedia, which really kick started my love for design. From this I knew already how helpful and friendly the staff members were. And if there was one place where I could gain great experience, it was the SRC. It is a great entity to work for as it’s so well-known within NI.
What interested you about this placement?
I hoped to get experience working in a professional company with design, video and marketing elements threaded throughout the daily work requirements. Essentially, I sought experience working within a commercial environment, meeting deadlines and being taught vital skills and knowledge that will aid me in the final year of my degree.
What skills did you hope to gain during this placement and has SRC met your expectations?
Yes, definitely! Before working for the SRC I hoped that I would be given the opportunity to further develop my skills in design and the SRC allowed me to do just that. Being introduced to different platforms and gaining experience in a variety of software was a bonus. Being able to work in a professional environment with really helpful members of staff has been great. I’ve been given work within my degree area and have since then developed new skills in other fields of work such as marketing and video production.
What work/projects have you undertaken for SRC during your placement? Have you been given challenging projects /creative freedom to design?
I’ve been involved in many design aspects such as, designing billboards, posters and social media posts on Canva, creating relay videos for the Big Apprenticeship Event, YouTube videos and am currently creating a brochure for the Leadership & Management Short Course promotional drive. I’ve been allowed creative freedom in preparing designs, so long as content criteria has been satisfied.
Describe your usual workday?
I arrive and jump straight back into the current project I am working on. Some days there is a juggling element required depending on which project deliverable requires completion. However, most projects are taken on separately, so tasks are manageable. There is also the ‘wee’ ad hoc task that comes up during the day to complete.
Where do you want to be in 5 years’ time?
Hopefully in a full-time job working as a designer for a well-known company. I would like to get the opportunity to work further with SRC or within a design team at Google.