Get to Know Sam - Our Design Placement Student

Heather McLean

We've enjoyed having Sam working with Team Form over the past three months so, with her return to Napier University to complete her degree in Interior & Spatial Design on the horizon, we wish her all the best!


So, Sam, tell us a little more...


Which has been the most memorable project you’ve been involved with whilst at Form?
RLG was the most challenging and, with us only doing the technical side, everything was arranged differently - having 6/7 drawings on one sheet, for example. Producing a pack of drawings for the first time was a new experience, but I really learned a lot from it in terms of layout, specification and coordination.
The next was Love Loan, which was memorable as it was the first presentation document I'd put together myself. That was checked in a meeting with Manu and Andy and everything was fine, bar some fine details, which I was more than happy with.

What skill do you think you have developed the most during your placement which you can take forward into your career?
My presentation skills, and overall confidence whilst presenting, have improved as well as my knowledge of CAD and confidence in SketchUp. When I started, SketchUp was okay for me, but I didn’t expect to be able to create base models at a quicker pace with good detail. With CAD, I’ve been shown so many new commands and options which can make converting layers and changing specific elements so much easier too.

What gives you energy and motivation whilst at work?
I love design and, working here, there’s been no struggle for me with motivation. The environment at Form is like a family - everyone helps each other. Feeling as though I can ask for help really makes me feel motivated to work hard. When energy is low some days, there’s always someone to pick you back up, or help you feel better.
Sometimes all it takes is some good chat, good music or a good laugh.

What do you enjoy doing to relax, outside of work?
I do love a good walk by the beach, or in the Highlands somewhere quiet and peaceful, followed by some good food and a film.

What was your dream job when you were a kid?
There was always a question mark next to what I wanted to be, but I would pretend I was a teacher all the time, telling stories and writing on a chalk board etc.

Who or what inspires you, in the design world?
Its hard to pinpoint who inspires me in the design world, but I feel very inspired by general exhibits and seeing the process and thoughts of other designers, as it really gets me thinking creatively.

What was your favourite subject at school?
I'd like to say Art, but I didn’t get to enjoy that until 6th year when I crashed it at Higher. I enjoyed English and learning new things in RMPS (Religious Moral and Philosophical Studies). I really enjoyed Business Management and Admin and IT taught me key skills I use every day.

Which subject could you give a 30 minute presentation on, without preparation?
A bit random, but Harry Potter - don’t quote me on it though!

Which achievements are you most proud of?
Being the first in my family to go to university. It's never been an ambition of theirs, but I always knew I wanted to go and I’m so glad I pushed myself to do it.

Give us a fun fact that not many people know about you?
I played the trumpet for around 6 years at school...

What’s your biggest goal for this year?
To travel to new places and to go back to the places I never got to experience properly!


Thanks Sam - we're looking forward to hearing about your Final Project and graduation in 2025!