Syed’s pre-degree story: Rebuilding momentum after the pandemic

Syed joined the UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design after a long period of online learning during the pandemic. “I felt I needed more time to explore my career options,” he explains. The course’s hands-on, material-focused approach helped him reconnect with creative experimentation, supported by academic and technical staff who encouraged him to test, document and refine his ideas.

For Syed, community was central to his experience. “I built friendships across a wide range of disciplines—from fine art and jewellery to architecture and fashion. Being exposed to such diversity has helped me become a more balanced designer.”

A memorable highlight was working with Fedrigoni paper mill on an illustration project. “We had the opportunity to exhibit our work in their Farringdon space, which was an incredible networking opportunity. I still use Fedrigoni papers in my practice today.”

Syed describes the foundation as a “crucial stepping stone,” preparing him for the pace and expectations of undergraduate study. “I noticed that students who hadn’t done a foundation struggled more with the intensity, while those of us who had were able to hit the ground running.”

Progression guidance was woven into the course. “Academic tutors provided valuable guidance, and the second term was structured to help us develop strong projects for our portfolios.”

He saw the impact of this support in his progression journey, with his application outcomes including offers from several UAL courses, including BA Product and Industrial Design, BA Graphic Communication Design, BA Jewellery Design, BA Ceramic Design and BA Architecture. The versatility he developed over the year became a defining strength.

Syed Mursh: UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, followed by a BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design at UAL Central Saint Martins

Read more about: Taking the step up from pre-degree to undergraduate study at UAL