Turning a passion for art into a future in architecture
For 17-year-old Kuba Aleksandrowicz, creativity has always gone hand in hand with a fascination for buildings and design. With a long-standing interest in art and architecture, studying Art and Design Level 3 at Leicester College has provided the perfect opportunity for Kuba to develop his artistic skills whilst working towards his future career ambitions.
Outside of college, Kuba enjoys photography and often uses his own photographs as inspiration for his artwork.
"I like photography and drawing from my photographs. I travel a lot, so I take lots of pictures on my journeys and document where I've travelled through my paintings," he says.
Making the right choice
When researching his next steps after school, Leicester College quickly stood out as the right choice.
Kuba comments: "It was easy for me to choose to study at Leicester College - it's got a good reputation."
After attending an open day and learning more about the course, Kuba knew immediately that it was the programme he wanted to study.
Standout moments
One project that particularly resonated with him focused on urban decay and celebrating Leicester's architecture. Drawing inspiration from the city's industrial buildings, Kuba wanted to challenge perceptions and encourage people to see beauty in structures that are often overlooked.
"My art piece was based on the industrial architecture around Leicester, which is often frowned upon. I wanted to present it in a more respectable way and show that it's something we can admire."
Course structure and support received
Kuba believes the course has helped him grow both creatively and personally, particularly through its practical approach to learning.
"There's lots of hands-on work. With art, the more you do it, the better you get."
One of the biggest surprises for Kuba was the supportive and welcoming atmosphere he experienced when joining the college.
"The biggest standout moment was when I first came to college. The teachers are all really friendly and it's a completely different experience. They treat you more like friends rather than being strict with you, which makes it a really nice environment."
Throughout his studies, Kuba has felt well supported by both his tutors and classmates.
"I feel like my teachers are really helpful and I could ask anyone for help if I needed it."
Recommending the course to other students
Kuba continues: "I would absolutely recommend this course to other students. The teachers are friendly and it's just a great environment."
His advice to future students is to embrace creativity and trust their own artistic journey.
"Just go for it. Art is experimental. Everyone has their own style and everyone will find their own way."
Next steps
Looking ahead, Kuba plans to complete the second year of his course before progressing to university to study architecture. His ultimate ambition is to become an architect and one day establish his own architecture firm.
"The end goal would be to become an architect. I'd hopefully like to have my own architecture firm in the future."
While he is excited about the opportunities ahead, Kuba also hopes his future career may eventually take him back to his home country.
"I do feel strongly about moving back to Poland. I miss it and I would want my future to be there."