I just familiarized myself with the issue of designing gardens November 2004 and was fascinated what a difference it makes if you know how to do it and how much you can get out even of small spaces. So I looked for possibilities to get these skills myself
Did you make any contact with the Institute before enrolling?
Yes I did, as I was very insecure at the beginning what to expect and if I can manage besides a challenging fulltime job. I always got quick answers to my questions. Thanks!.
What was your impression of the course when it arrived?
I was happy about it, though I would recommend to buy some stuff rather yourself than getting the whole package posted.
Did you consider any other courses?
I did have a look at other courses but at the end I choose this one and decided to compliment it with practical short courses where I live (like a horticulture course). This is very useful for me as I wouldn't have enough time to study within a certain timeframe, which is normally the conditions when studying with an institution where you go for lessons, but I do think it is good to sometimes have the lecturing atmosphere where you can also clarify other things. The contents of my horticulture course are very valuable for me regarding this distance course and I can use some of the knowledge I gained the but it is no duplication.
Ultimately, what do you want to do?
I am too realistic to concentrate on this new field and expect to be a successful designer from the beginning, but I will try to integrate it more into future workfields and if possible make it a focus area of my work. As I have an educational background I believe I can try to combine garden (design) work with youth work or would like to become part of projects like the intercultural gardens(http://www.stiftung-interkultur.de/eng/index.htm) in Germany. For now I see it as a hobby and enjoy developing my skills. If not earning money with it later on I will still be able to apply the skills in my own garden.
How are you progressing with your course?
I am progressing but not as quickly as I'd wish too. That is due to my job and also trying to travel a lot on weekends as I am living for a certain time in a foreign country. I do read a lot about garden design but it takes time and is work to do the assignments.
What might you say to someone who was thinking of enrolling on the course?
I would say that everyone must check out different possibilities and be honest with him/herself if they are able to discipline themselves to study without pressure. For me it's great to study with enough time. For those who are able to do so I can recommend this course but would also recommend to do some practical short courses or practical work additional.
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