A Coventry University graduate who has worked with global brands like New Balance and Nike says there is more than one path to success. Harkiran Kalsi, known as Harky, from Leamington, started her creative journey through the university’s clearing process.
With A-Level results day approaching on Thursday, August 14, Harkey said she feared her dreams of a creative career might be over if she didn’t achieve the necessary A-Level results.
She said, “When I didn’t get the grades I wanted, it felt like my world was falling apart. I’d always dreamed of going to art school, but suddenly, I didn’t know what my future looked like. Thankfully, my mum always believed in me, and that belief kept me going, and that’s when we found the clearing.”
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Harky called Coventry University’s clearing hotline and was offered a place on the Art Foundation course. The coursework-based programme allowed her to explore various creative paths and discover her strengths. It allowed her to continue her studies, and she graduated with a first-class degree in graphic design in 2006.
She added: “Coventry University gave me the building blocks I needed. During the foundation course and my degree, I finally felt in my element exploring creative paths and finding my direction. The experience shaped the creative person I am today and encouraged me to stay open, keep exploring, and develop my own style. That mindset of being confident, resilient, and curious has stayed with me ever since.”
She worked as an in-house graphic designer with Coventry City Council before moving to London after graduation. She had roles at BBC Children in Need and Comic Relief before going freelance in 2017. Since then, she has built her career as a designer and illustrator, working with big brands from EA Sports to IMG.
Now 40 years old, Harky credits her success to passion, perseverance, and the support of her mum and Coventry University. She continued: “A levels didn’t reflect my intelligence or passion. Passion is what carried me through. If you have that, follow it and find somewhere that helps you become the best version of yourself.”
“Don’t let your A-level results define you. They’re just a moment in time. Trust yourself, and the right doors will open. Looking back, even the setbacks were part of the path that led me to where I’m meant to be.”
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