“I brought my ecological mind to my work” Mary’s Erasmus+ Experience in Manchester
Mary Hoy
What does an Erasmus+ mobility look like during unprecedented times?
Mary Hoy, a student of National College of Art and Design, had an enriching experience in Manchester.
During her Erasmus+ mobility, Mary studied Textiles in Practice, abroad in the UK, at Manchester Metropolitan University. She describes her experience as “challenging and rewarding” and “highly recommended”.
“I had to choose which area I went into – knitting, weaving, print or embroidery, and mixed media. I chose the latter. Because of the pandemic, they did a 6-week block of studio work, and then a six-week block on the essay. I did my studio work on the lack of green space in Manchester city centre, and wrote my essay on that theme too. I was not able to go to lectures in ecology, which I was disappointed with, but it was during the pandemic, so I brought my ecological mind to my work. Life was simple and reflective.”
We think this is a great example of how Erasmus+ equips people with the knowledge, skills and competences needed in a dynamically changing society that is increasingly mobile, multicultural and digital.
Brooks Building, Manchester Metropolitan University
As a mature student, Mary did miss having others in the same boat around, and she feels it would have been great to have been able to connect with other mature students in the university. Mary speaks very fondly of the students on the course and says it was lovely to watch their success from afar.
What would be the main thing that Mary has gotten from Erasmus+?
“Independence on leaving my family behind, and fitting back in with my family on my return. Knowing I can still live on my own, enjoy my own company, and all the above experiences.”
To any students thinking of going off on Erasmus+, Mary would say: “Go, go, go – you have the protection and security of NCAD behind you.”
Thanks for speaking to us, Mary, and well done on a successful Erasmus+ experience!
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