Successful Comms Design Graduate Thriving in Falmouth

Since graduating from the MA in Communication Design in 2017, Bethia Naughton-Rumbo has been busy working on various marketing and communications projects across Cornwall. In this interview, she talks about her experience studying and now working in Falmouth.

Thanks for talking to us, Bethia. To start with, please can you tell us about what you do?

I work as a Marketing Consultant in Falmouth, offering services in communications strategy, content creation and creative campaign delivery. I explore new ways for brands to stand out to their audience, and then design a meaningful solution for every brief.

What have you been working on recently, since you graduated from the MA?

I have worked on a variety of projects including the conceptualisation of  Solitary Bee Week  with Green&Blue, the delivery of RNLI’s  Design Out Drowning  initiative with Made Open, communications strategy for  The Man Engine’s Resurrection Tour, and marketing support for the Hall for Cornwall. In 2018, I also joined the Newlyn Art Gallery and Exchange’s Board of Trustees.

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MA Communication Design

And how do you feel your studies have helped you in developing your career?

I joined the course as a mature student, having already worked for ten years in marketing and communications for a variety of international publishing houses, creative agencies and charities. The course was a brilliant way to deconstruct my current working practice, examine different components of the design process and find new ways of tackling communications problems.

Following the MA, I now approach each client’s brief in a more creative and experimental way, looking for ways to push boundaries and develop more impactful and thought-provoking outcomes.

What did you enjoy most about the MA?

I enjoyed having the freedom and time to learn, be creative, and experience so many fascinating lectures from industry professionals around the world. The MA Communication Design tutors were brilliant, challenging us to create and communicate meaningful and effective ideas.

From your experience as a marketing professional and from the MA, what would your advice be for new practitioners looking to join the industry?

My advice is to get as much experience as possible. Work on your own projects, volunteer your time and apply for internships. The more creative work environments you are exposed to, the more you can learn from others.