Spurthi Gangatkar

Profile

Spurthi took a leap of faith that transformed into the most incredible adventure of her life. Just a year ago, she was in her room in India, nervously packing for a journey thousands of miles from home to pursue a Master’s in Interior Architecture and Design.

Adapting to a new environment with a colder climate, managing the demands of a rigorous academic program, and balancing a part-time job while staying connected with family across the world was no small feat. Yet, she not only embraced these challenges but also excelled, earning recognition as a prize-winning student.

Find out more about Spurthi’s story below.

What programme did you study and why did you choose it?

When it came to choosing where to pursue my Master’s, I knew I wanted more than just a prestigious name, I wanted a program that truly resonated with my passion for sustainability in design. That’s when I discovered Heriot-Watt’s MA in Interior Architecture and Design, and its focus on combining creative thinking with real-world impact immediately drew me in. It was everything I had been searching for. Before I knew it, I was boarding a plane, leaving behind the familiarity of home, ready to embrace this new chapter in life.

What were the key differences you found between studying/living in India and Scotland?

Moving to Scotland was an adventure in every way. Coming from the tropical warmth of India, the cold winters were a shock, but soon, I found myself charmed by the brisk mornings and cozy evenings layered in sweaters. The bigger challenge, though, was adapting to the life of an international student. Between managing coursework, a part-time job, household chores, and staying connected with family back home, it often felt overwhelming. But the campus quickly became my second home.

Was our campus environment an influence on your decision to study at Heriot-Watt?

Heriot-Watt provided not only excellent facilities but also a nurturing environment to grow and thrive. Spaces like the quiet room, where I often found myself seeking calm amidst the chaos, became a haven. It wasn’t just a place to study, it was where my best ideas were born and where I often regrouped with my friends for moments of clarity and laughter.

My journey wouldn’t have been the same without Aathmika and Thrishala. Together, we formed an unshakable trio that shared everything, from assignments and late-night brainstorming sessions to exploring the city and endless conversations at the University café. These two incredible women became my support system, my constant cheerleaders, and my partners in crime. Whether we were huddled in the quiet room during crunch time or celebrating small victories with coffee breaks, they made the experience brighter, richer, and far more memorable.

How has the University aided your professional and personal development?

Academically, the journey was transformative. The program challenged me to think critically and creatively, moving away from rote learning and encouraging independent exploration. Facilities like the Maker’s Lab opened up endless possibilities for experimentation, whether it was 3D printing, laser cutting, or even woodworking, a craft I never thought I’d love.

Through it all, Heriot-Watt has left a lasting imprint on me, not just as a designer, but as an individual. It taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of collaboration. From honing my presentation skills to embracing different perspectives through teamwork, the experience has been nothing short of life changing.

Can you tell us more about what prize you received and how it feels to be a prize-winning student?

One of my proudest achievements was receiving the Sustainable Design Special Award for my retail project, SATVA, a concept for a sustainable fashion boutique with eco-friendly interiors and a green business model. Winning this award not only validated my passion for sustainability but also inspired me to push the boundaries of creativity in design.

What advice would you give to a student considering Heriot-Watt?

To anyone considering Heriot-Watt, I’d say: do your research, connect with alumni, and take the leap. This is a place where you’ll not only grow academically but also discover more about yourself than you ever thought possible.

What are you planning to do after you graduate?

I’m excited about what’s next. I’m actively exploring opportunities that align with my passion for interior architecture, particularly in residential and hospitality design.