About me

University Education

I enrolled in the University of Ulster in 2007 in the Multimedia Computing & Design course. After first year my lecturers suggested that I move to the Design Communication Course as my interest was firmly on the Design aspect of the course. I was admitted to the Design Communication Degree course and I never looked back. During the first 2 years I studied 2D and graphics, 3D and product design and moving image and animation. In final year I specialised in graphics and moving image. For my final year project I wrote my own brief and chose the subject 'The Lost Art of Conversation', as I demonstrated, through visual communication, how social media and mobile technology is changing how we view 'Conversation.' I wanted to convey the message that both the visual and audio aspects of conversation have been stripped away, producing a book and a short film to communicate the message. My dissertation on this was chosen by the Faculty Head as the lecturer's choice entry into the Irish Undergraduate Awards under Social Sciences. Result pending.

I graduated on 4 July with a Bachelor of Design (BDes) with First Class Honours in Design and Communication.

During my final year I became involved in additional voluntary projects, the main examples being ScreenSound and a poster design with fellow designer, Chris Scott. For ScreenSound I was a mentor working with students from a local College. My role involved mentoring the students, helping them to do their story boarding and produce their final piece. I also worked with Carn Media to produce another film, directed by Padraig Lynch (Design Lecturer, Magee), entitled 'Stark'. I was co-director, co-producer and editor for a third film, entitled 'White Acrylic'. "White Acrylic" has been shown in 2 showcases and an Irish Film Festival to date, with further shows anticipated. All 3 films can be accessed from my blog. The link below provides further information about ScreenSound. *

Poster Design

I was co-director and photographer on a poster design. The piece, entitled 'We take water for granted', was chosen as one of the semi-finalists for the Adobe Design Achievement Awards. Finalists to be announced in August 2011.

During my university education and independent study I have acquired skills in Design, Creative Thinking and the use of various design software packages as detailed on my CV. Design is my passion and I look forward to further developing my skills as a designer.

I live in Northern Ireland but I am very keen to live and work within the design industry in England. I will be in London from the 9th of July - 16th July with my portfolio and will be available for interview if required.

Blog address - mjsd.tumblr.com (Personal Portfolio Site currently in development)