Associate lecturer in fashion — Savanna Goodwin
After completing an undergraduate degree in fashion followed by an MA, Savanna got a job as an associate lecturer with her former university. Find out more about how she combines her fashion design skills with teaching students
What degree did you study?
I studied BA Fashion at the University of Staffordshire. Following this, I pursued an MA Fashion course at the same university, specialising in womenswear design and sustainability.
How did you get your job?
During my time at university, I actively engaged in all aspects of the course and university life. I had great respect for my lecturers and developed strong relationships with them. After graduating, I maintained these connections, which eventually led to my current position as an associate lecturer in fashion at the University of Staffordshire. My lecturers, now colleagues, recognised my potential and encouraged me to pursue teaching.
How relevant is your degree?
My degree equipped me with comprehensive knowledge of fashion design and allowed me to develop practical skills in pattern cutting, garment construction and sustainable practices. This understanding has been transferable to teaching and has allowed me to effectively demonstrate techniques to students. Throughout my degree, I developed strong interpersonal skills, which have been invaluable both in the workplace and in everyday life. I am able to communicate effectively, collaborate with others and problem solve.
What's a typical working day like?
In the morning, I can be in the workshop with first year students, guiding them on their first toiles, and in the afternoon demonstrating creative cutting techniques to second year students. Day-to-day, I design and deliver structured learning experiences through lectures, workshops and tutorial sessions focusing on design and pattern cutting for both first and second-year students.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
My role is incredibly rewarding, as I have the privilege of supporting students as they develop their own ideas and watching their creativity flourish as their projects come to life. I enjoy being part of a creative environment and collaborating with other disciplines within the creative industries - it is both inspiring and a valuable opportunity to build connections.
What are the challenges?
As I am relatively new to the role, I strive to ensure my teaching is effective and engaging. I find this challenging as I am learning from experience. Time management is another challenge, finding a healthy balance between preparing lectures, teaching and offering individual support to students. Although these challenges can be demanding, they can lead to invaluable personal and professional growth.
Where do you hope to be in five years?
In five years, I hope to still be pursuing a career in lecturing as there is so much I want to learn and achieve personally in this role. Additionally, I want to remain engaged in the fashion industry during my free time. I have a deep passion for womenswear design and sustainability in fashion, and it would be rewarding to contribute to both areas. That would be the dream, but I am open to any opportunities that come my way.
What advice can you give to others?
- Say 'yes' to every opportunity, even if it's not something you initially planned for your future, as it could lead to new and exciting ventures.
- Be willing to be a little fish in a big pond and try to step out of your comfort zone. It can foster personal and professional growth and provide opportunities to challenge yourself.
- Stay curious and never stop learning.
Find out more
- Discover what you can do with a degree in fashion.
- Learn more about the role of a higher education lecturer.
- Gain an insight into the creative arts and design and teaching industries.