The Gordon Graphic Design program has again exceeded expectations to deliver great students to local industry. Each year as part of the Advanced Diploma of Graphic Design, students are encouraged to take up work placement in local businesses to learn the ropes and get a feel for the fast pace the graphic design world can serve up.
“We can teach students the fundamentals of design, teach them how to use software creatively and give students real client briefs, but at the end of the day, there is no substitute for the real thing,” course co-ordinator Jose Rodriguez says.
“Graphic Design is a competitive industry, and we aim to give our students the best competitive advantage we can.”
Torquay based advertising agency Fluid has taken on two Gordon graduates over recent years, Nick Humphries and newcomer Mitchell Eaton.
“The Gordon has prepared these guys really well for working in our agency. They are an integral part of our team and we can see them having a long term future with us,” managing director Mike Beck says.
“Mitch has come to us from The Gordon with a great attitude, a sound skill base and above all, a willingness to learn. With great animation and design skills he is a real asset to the team.”
With blue chip Melbourne clients on Fluid’s accounts, Mitch will be sure to craft his skills in the years to come.
Paul Neely, art director at full service advertising agency Ivy Street, was impressed with Gordon’s student Ben Brushfield’s capabilities in 3D and animation software.
“Ben came to us on work placement while studying at The Gordon this year and when a position opened up for a junior designer, he applied and got the position,” Paul says.
“Ben has a great passion for creativity and he is a perfect addition to our studio.”
Geelong-based signage company Signific has also been a great supporter of The Gordon’s work placement program for many years.
“We love having Gordon students with us, as their practical application and can-do attitudes really stand out,” director Warrwick Mossop says.
“We have taken on two Gordon graduates in full-time positions, Adam Saunders and Jett Swanborough. These guys show initiative and have come from The Gordon with great foundation skills to build their new career on.”
In 2017, Graphic design students will have the opportunity to be a part of an international study tour to Singapore where international advertising agencies open up their doors to the team.
“This is an incredible opportunity for students. Singapore is rich in culture and it gives students a global perspective on design. Students return from these course with a heightened passion for their design practice,” Jose says.
Thinking about a future in design? Now is the time to get your folio together and apply online today. Applications for The Gordon are now open for 2017 – but don’t leave it too long as positions in this course fill quickly.
The Gordon’s 2017 Graphic Design student exhibition Stand Out is on from Thursday November 3 – 10 (excluding Sat/Sun) from 10am – 4pm at The Gordon Gallery, Fenwick St, Geelong.
