Meet Vasiliki Kartapani: 2025 Scholarship Student.

At Shillington, we’re passionate about opening doors for emerging creatives through our Half Scholarship Program and we’re thrilled to be launching applications for 2026! To celebrate, we’re catching up with some of our inspiring half scholarship students to hear their stories, insights and advice for future applicants.

First up is Vasiliki Kartapani, who was awarded a half scholarship in February 2025. Fast forward to today, and she’s in her final term at Shillington, diving deep into her design studies and preparing to step into the industry. We chatted with Vasiliki to chat about her journey so far, what the scholarship has meant to her and how she’s grown as a designer along the way.

Hey Vasiliki! We're in your 3rd and final term at Shillington, but first up - what were you doing before studying at Shillington?

Before Shillington, I was and still am, working in digital marketing, mostly managing websites, content, and social media. I’ve always loved design, but my role didn’t give me the chance to dive into it fully.

That’s when I realised I wanted design to be a bigger part of my life, and the best way to start was by learning it properly.

What motivated you to apply for Shillington's half-scholarship program?

I’d had Shillington on my radar for years, but I kept hesitating. When I saw the scholarship opportunity, I thought this might finally be my chance. I was extremely nervous, but I didn’t want to look back and regret not trying.

Did you have any design experience before applying, or were you starting fresh?

I had a very little bit of experience from experimenting with design in my marketing role and in my free time, but nothing formal. I definitely considered myself a beginner. I just had a big curiosity for design since I was very young and a strong desire to finally learn properly.

How did you approach your creative response for the scholarship?

I honestly just tried to be myself and let my personality show. I didn’t have years of design work to put forward, so instead I leaned into my ideas, my story and why I wanted to learn. I think that honesty and rawness came through in my application.

What was your reaction when you found out you'd be awarded a Half Scholarship?

I’d been refreshing my emails for days and eventually I gave up checking so often. Then one morning at around 7am, I woke up to a notification and saw the email. I had to reread it a few times to believe it. I was in total shock...I cried on and off for two days! It was such a mix of relief, excitement, and disbelief. It really felt like a door that had always been closed was finally opening.

What did receiving the Half Scholarship mean to you personally and professionally?

Personally, it meant I could finally pursue something I’d been dreaming about for years. Professionally, it gave me the chance to build real design skills and grow in a direction I’ve always wanted to take.

So! You're still studying with us. How would you describe your experience studying at Shillington so far?

It’s been intense, but in the best way! Every day I’m pushed out of my comfort zone, but I can feel myself improving. The structure of the course makes you learn so quickly; it’s hard work, but also incredibly rewarding.

What were the most valuable skills you've learned during the course so far?

One of the biggest things has been learning to think like a designer and to believe in myself; not just focusing on making something look nice, but understanding why (!!) certain choices work. On the practical side, I’ve built confidence using software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Figma, which used to feel intimidating.

How has the community of teachers and classmates impacted your learning journey?

The support has been amazing. Everyone comes from different backgrounds, so we all bring something unique to the table. The teachers are really encouraging and my classmates make it feel like we’re all in it together.

What would you say to someone considering applying for the Half Scholarship?

Do it! Even if you doubt yourself. I almost talked myself out of applying because I was certain I wouldn’t be selected, but taking that step changed everything for me.

And last of all. If you could give one piece of advice to future applicants, what would it be?

Be honest about your journey and your passion for design. You don’t need to have the perfect portfolio. I had nothing to start with - just life experiences and stories. What matters is showing your drive and what you hope to achieve.

Feeling inspired? Our Half Scholarship Program is now open for 2026!

This is your chance to study graphic design at Shillington, build an industry-ready portfolio, and take the leap into a new creative future.

The deadline to apply is 20 October at 5pm EDT.

👉 Apply for the Half Scholarship here