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For those of you who have been in the Worksop College and Ranby House community for some time, you may recognise Mr Sugiyama - although he may have lost the school uniform and gained some facial hair! Mr Sugiyama is an Old Worksopian, from 2013-2018, and has come back to the college as a graduate assistant.
Why did you want to join the team at Worksop College?
I am an Old Worksopian! I came to study in the UK from Japan when I was 14 - Worksop College was my home in the UK and the teachers were like my parents and constant role models. Since leaving, I always hoped I would be able to help and give back - doing what I can for the school. I am truly delighted to be working at Worksop College. I am also delighted to see that those who were Year 7 while I was a prefect, are now prefects themselves! I can't hide my amazement at how tall they have grown - to the point where they can now look down on me (haha).
When I came to the UK, I had lots of great times as well as difficulties, such as overcoming the language barrier, culture shock and homesickness. These things were difficult, but I know that they made me stronger. I hope to use this experience to give advice to international students and support physically and mentally.
What has your professional career been so far?
During my time at Worksop College, I was given the opportunity to express myself through art. I fell in love with art and wanted to take further study at university, as it allowed me to express my thoughts to audience through visual language. After a year on the Foundation Course at Manchester Metropolitan University, where I experienced many art media, I opted for a three-year course in Illustration and Animation. During my time at university, I designed the logo for a total dog care company and completed several design commissions. In June this year, I graduated from university with a First Class Honours Degree. I would like to use this experience to support the art department at Worksop College, specialising in digital art.
What is something you are excited to get stuck into?
As well as painting, which I love, I am now using my experience to encourage more Japanese students to become interested in studying in the UK. I dream about deepening exchanges between Japan and the UK and eventually organising school trips to Japan thus I would like to open rugby tournaments between the Japanese school and the British schools.
If you are interested in Japan or having any ideas, please get in touch.
How have your first few days here been?
I have been very happy since joining the team. I have loved meeting staff, teachers and students who I haven't seen for a long time. I am also very happy to be back as part of the Worksop College family. Walking around the school building, memories come back of my precious time as a student. I will work hard to make sure the current students have the same great time I had at Worksop.
What is the best piece of advice you've been given so far?
The number one piece of advice is to “believe in yourself”, which is something my mother gave me. Believing in myself is what got me to be able to work as a graduate assistant at a great school with a long history. Thank you for giving me this precious opportunity. I am still inexperienced, but I would like to ask for your continued support and guidance. Thank you very much.
