Maria Stasakova’s journey at University Centre Weston is a testament to her dedication, passion, and perseverance. As a BA (Hons) Art and Design student, Maria has impressed her tutors with her commitment to creativity and personal growth, all while balancing the responsibilities of being a mother. Her tutors describe her as hardworking, enthusiastic, and an absolute pleasure to teach.
Maria chose UCW for its small class sizes, welcoming atmosphere, and the strong sense of community she felt from day one: “On that day, I was shown the campus and felt very welcomed. The members of staff and students were in good spirits, which indicated a high level of satisfaction with their academic and practical experience.” Originally considering fashion or textiles, she ultimately selected Art and Design for its broad scope, allowing her to explore multiple mediums while still incorporating her passion for textiles into her projects.
Her time at UCW has been marked by artistic and personal growth. She values the guest speakers and trips, which have broadened her understanding of the creative industry. “Trips have been very stimulating, and being able to talk to our tutors about displayed artworks at galleries or museums is always a bonus. Exposure to a variety of art encourages us to think critically about our own work.”
Despite the challenges of balancing studies, family, and work, Maria has shown remarkable resilience. As a non-native English speaker, she initially feared academic writing but has made significant progress with the support of her tutors and peers. “My tutor’s encouragement during my academic journey so far is slowly helping me to overcome my fear of failure and build up self-confidence, which is so important for every student.” She also credits UCW’s staff, particularly the HEART team, for their invaluable support.
Being shortlisted for Creative Student of the Year was an incredible honour for Maria. She describes it as “an unexpected privilege” and remains humbled by the recognition. Her tutors believe her experimental approach, commitment, and passion for her craft set her apart.
Looking ahead, Maria is focused on completing her degree while balancing family and work responsibilities. She is considering further study but is also exploring creative career opportunities. Her long-term goal is to find a fulfilling role where she can apply her artistic skills while making a meaningful impact on her community.
To those considering UCW, Maria offers this advice: “If you’re looking for smaller class sizes, a strong sense of community, and an environment that nurtures creativity, UCW is an excellent choice.”
Find out more about our BA (Hons) Art and Design course by clicking here! Watch Maria’s video below!
@ucweston See how Maria’s dream came true at UCW! ✨🎨
♬ original sound – UCWeston
