Oksana Kovalenko
With a background in architectural design, Oksana enrolled on our part-time MSt in History of Design initially to satisfy her own intellectual curiosity. However, since completing the course, she is now looking to progress her career in the field of automotive design.
'I am from Ukraine and have a background in architectural and graphic design. After the war began, I relocated to Italy, where I studied Italian language and culture, building on an interest I had had for many years. I then moved to Oxford and started the MSt in History of Design programme, where Italian transportation design became the main focus of my studies.
'I wanted to deepen my understanding of design history, and when I discovered the course programme and the chance to study under Claire O’Mahony, I realised what a rare opportunity it was. I found myself particularly drawn to the balance between a well-structured programme and the freedom to develop my own research direction. I initially took the course out of passion, but I am now looking for work in this area. Studying history through the lens of automotive design turned out to be something I really enjoyed, gave me an opportunity to contribute to the field, and strengthened my interest in it.
'Looking back on the challenges, I think the first came before the programme even began: I wondered whether I was the right fit for the University of Oxford and whether I should apply. Eventually, I realised that was not really for me to decide, and that my role was to follow what interested me and try my best. Once the course began, another difficulty was learning how to develop my own research topics for each assignment, with so many possible directions to choose from. This also meant finding the right museum and archival materials, gaining access to objects where possible, and sometimes travelling to study them in person.
'The rewarding part was when the effort led to access to a valuable source, which opened up a new direction in my work. I especially enjoyed those moments when the research itself taught me something I had not expected, bringing me closer to understanding the world in which an object was first designed and used. At the same time, when you study something you genuinely care about, you may discover something about yourself and find like-minded people along the way.
'For anyone considering this course, I would advise choosing case studies you are truly passionate about, because that enthusiasm will carry you through the more demanding parts of the programme. Make the most of your time as an Oxford student. There are many events, both online and in person, so take every opportunity to get involved in the academic community. Reach out for help, turn challenges into opportunities to broaden your perspective, and keep learning.'
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