Alumni Spotlight: Domininkas Zalys

Why did you choose ARU College?
The college was recommended by a friend. After having a further look into the University, the College and course pathway I was really interested in how the foundation year prepares you for university.

How did ARU College help with the transition to University?
The art and design pathway helped me develop on all levels. Not only was it really art orientated to help develop your skills, but it also prepared me for the academic side of university – something that I think a lot of people aren’t prepared for. Even the ICT module was helpful and prepared me for my Photography course, particularly with programmes like Photoshop and Sketchup.

On the Art and Design course there was a real focus was on how you tell a story through your art – this was something that really helped me throughout my degree and even now.

What is it about Cambridge, do you think, that keeps on inspiring artists and students?
For me, Cambridge is the headquarters of everything – you can find everything you want here from arts to technology. It is one of those places that can help you become whoever or whatever you want to be, the possibilities are endless in Cambridge.

Living in Cambridge gives you the opportunity and will power to achieve whatever you want to achieve – it’s one of the most inspiring cities I’ve had the opportunity to live in.

Do you have any advice for students coming to the College?
Coming to university is all about your journey and what you make of it. ARU College and ARU help you to achieve your goals. The support they offer is second to none and will help you with your goals, whatever they maybe. Make sure you listen to what they have to say and take all the support they have to offer – it all helps you on your journey.

What are you doing now?
I have set up my own creative agency which works alongside businesses to help improve their marketing and brand awareness through visuals.

When I was studying at ARU College and ARU, I took every networking opportunity I could. I met so many different people along the way and even had the chance to work alongside Cambridge University as their photographer for certain events, through them I even had the opportunity to photograph the Queen.

The networking I did throughout my time at university has helped me to get where I am today, without that experience I would not have been able to set up my own company. The people who I met at ARU and my time photographing for Cambridge University have helped me to develop this company, and it’s been great to work alongside other fellow ARU graduates.

I am also a member of the London Union Society, an independent collective creative by students for students.

I still do Photography in my spare time, wherever I am I will be snapping pictures as it is my passion but my focus at the moment is on my business.

What’s your fondest memory of your time over the four years?
My fondest memory is when I have received my university degree, it was a unique and a moment I worked hard for.

Any final words?

If I made it, you can!

Domininkas Zalys 
Lithuania
BA (Hons) Photography