After completing her undergraduate degree in architecture at Bath, Disha went on to pursue her passion in communication design and set up her own creating branding studio DIBS*.
Disha shares her memories of studying at the University and the unique elements of her architecture degree that set her up for future success.
Why did you choose to study at Bath?
Bath's consistent top ranking in the UK for its architecture programmes was a major draw for me.
A campus visit totally sealed the deal. The city's vibrant community, student-friendly atmosphere and world-class studio spaces were exactly what I was looking for.
Moving away from home at 17, Bath offered the perfect blend of academic excellence and a supportive environment.
The opportunity to learn from industry leaders and gain practical experience through placements was an added bonus.
Did you have a particular career in mind when you chose your course?
My lifelong passion for design led me to study architecture at Bath and the programme helped me pinpoint my specific interests within the field.
Through the two placements, I gained valuable, real-world experience and discovered that my true calling lay in communication design.
My architectural background provided a solid foundation for transitioning into this new field.
Can you tell us about your experience of studying here?
Bath felt like a second home to me. I cherished the city's unique charm, delicious food and cosy coffee shops. Kingsmead Square used to be one of my favourite spots in the city to just sit and take a breather.
The 4 East South studios were my creative haven on campus. After four unforgettable years, every corner holds a special memory – from sipping coffee at 4W Cafe to strolling The Parade and relaxing at the SU. Bath will always be a cherished part of my university experience.
In addition to this, my placements were a transformative experience that significantly impacted my career trajectory. They provided a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects, solidifying my understanding of interior design and inspiring new career aspirations.
My first placement at align, a workspace design practice in London, introduced me to the intricacies of interior design projects. From spatial graphics to reception desk design, I gained valuable hands-on experience and a deep appreciation for the attention to detail required at a spatial level.
My second placement at HW Architecture in Paris was equally impactful. Working on the Gallery renewal at the Louvre, Abu Dhabi, I had the privilege of contributing to a prestigious project and interacting with renowned architect Jean Nouvel. The cultural immersion and high-quality work I produced during this placement were instrumental in shaping my final year at Bath.
I firmly believe that these placements were pivotal in my personal and professional development. They not only provided valuable work experience but also fostered lifelong friendships.
How did your studies help you to develop, professionally and/or personally?
I think the unique combination of engineering-led architectural design, on site and group projects, and not-to-be-forgotten criticals, laid down such a strong foundation for me in the field of design, overall work ethic and leadership.
Studying at Bath during my formative years in the field of design shaped me into the strong, disciplined entrepreneur I am today.
Describe your career journey since graduating.
Since graduating, I went on to pursue communication design and, in 2021, I started my own multidisciplinary design studio called DIBS*.
I’m the co-founder and creative heart of the studio and overlook things like brand strategy, design and communication for brands across various industries and countries.
A typical day for me involves overlooking my team, developing our brand portfolio and focusing on business growth.
What advice would you give to prospective students thinking about studying your course at Bath?
I would really tell everyone to enjoy their time at university and make the most of it. Trust me, this time never comes back.
Your friends will never be at the same place as you again, and the memories and connections you make will last a lifetime.
So, join that society, go to that party and get out of your comfort zone because this is literally where your life journey begins.
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