Graduate shares her experience as an international student at Falmouth University

In 2015, Fern Khaoroptham moved from Thailand to England to join Falmouth University’s Game Development: Art BA(Hons) degree. She then went on to study the Illustration: Authorial Practice MA. Since graduating, Fern's worked on projects including Coca-Cola Thailand’s RAKNAM (Love Water) campaign and official LINE stickers of Disney Thailand’s Captain Marvel. Today, she’s working as a background painter at M2 Animation in Bangkok. We caught up with Fern to find out her experience at Falmouth University.  

How do you think Falmouth University helped to elevate your career? 

Falmouth opened me to the world of the art industry and how I could take my art further beyond the realms of what most people think an art career is. The unique structure of the Game Development course at Falmouth allowed us to develop and produce a game as a team, with members who specialised writing, animation, music/audio, art, design or programming. Therefore, I graduated knowing the steps and pipelines that go into game creation.  

Why did you choose to apply to Falmouth University? 

During the application stage, I had a Skype meeting with one of the lecturers at Falmouth. He was very encouraging and offered advice on how to achieve my dream. His words gave me hope and made me eager to study at Falmouth University. It was the first time I received such kind words and encouragement about my art journey and career pursuit. 

Upon researching, I saw that Cornwall had stunning natural landscapes, especially the beaches. The environment and the atmosphere are calm and relaxing, which is different from Thailand and other cities in the United Kingdom. I felt I could find inspiration and concentrate on my studies without distractions. 

The friendly and caring atmosphere on campus and around town is something that I've never experienced elsewhere. It was the first time I felt like I was a part of this tightly knit community where the kindness, warmth and encouragement was genuine.

And how was your experience of living and studying here once you arrived? 

It was a lovely place to live and study. I believe that the community and support that Falmouth provided cannot be found at any other UK or worldwide universities. The friendly and caring atmosphere on campus and around town is something that I've never experienced elsewhere. It was the first time I felt like I was a part of this tightly knit community where the kindness, warmth and encouragement was genuine. 

The air is fresh, the town is populated with foliage and animals, and the sea waves are calming. There are many beautiful places to see and explore. Most are accessible by walking or cycling, for example, Gylly beach. I couldn't think of a better place to live and study for my undergraduate degree and postgraduate degree. Cornwall will always hold a special place in my heart. I miss being there so much and would love to visit again. 

How did you find the facilities available to you on campus? 

It was a wonderful and eye-opening experience. I especially loved the printing facilities and the library. The vast amount of media that can be used to create art and the myriad of books was incredible! I miss the facilities and equipment available at Falmouth and I highly recommend that you make full use of what is available while you're there! 

The Workshop Festival (where you can learn skills outside of your discipline) was a fantastic way to try out the facilities and explore different media. They gave me opportunities to explore and experiment with different art forms. I learned a lot from them and I have a new love of bookbinding. 

Everyone at Falmouth is very kind and caring. Rest assured that they will find ways to assist you as best as they can.

How did you find the student support services at Falmouth University?  

The student support at Falmouth is immaculate. Not only does Falmouth offer art-related workshops, but they also have employability coaching, sound and vision and tech and coding! They have courses in health and well-being, academic skills, English language, foreign language, funding, accessibility and inclusive learning, and much more!  

I highly encourage students to reach out if they need help, be it the lecturer, friends or student support team. Whatever the matter may be, don't be afraid. Everyone at Falmouth is very kind and caring. Rest assured that they will find ways to assist you as best as they can. 

What is your most memorable moment at Falmouth?  

This is a tricky one to answer! I have had so many memorable moments at Falmouth that are all dear to me. But if I had to pick one, I'd say that the Christmas Day Meal organised by the Multi-faith Chaplaincy for international students who stayed over the winter break is my most memorable moment. We got to walk along the coast with new friends, play with their dogs and cats, play games, and have a wonderful meal together. If it wasn't for this, I probably would have been celebrating Christmas alone. I will forever be grateful for their hospitality and kindness.  

 

Explore Fern's work

fernforrest.com

@fernforrest_

 

Explore the courses studied by Fern at Falmouth University

 Game Development BA(Hons)

Illustration: Authorial Practice MA