Hear straight from our graduates.
Shillington definitely was that platform that allowed me to get into the career I wanted in a short space of time. It’s a fantastic course to develop your skills.
Freelance Graphic Designer
Ben Peters
What does your typical day look like?
I’m currently freelancing as a graphic artist and working on a number of exciting brands in the fashion and health industries. I spend my time working between home, local cafes and a office space in Brunswick. I’m a strong believer in using your skills and opportunities to create the life you want to live, and for me that is a good balance between work and life. I usually jump on to the computer first thing in the morning; I find this takes the stress of the rest of the day. I’ll grab a coffee and head to the office where I meet with the rest of the team. We’ll prioritise what we want to achieve today and then knock it out. At night I work on developing my personal projects. For me this structure allows me to generate a income but also keeps me motivated as I know I have time to do the things outside of work that are getting me closer to my goals.
What do you love about design?
I love that there are no rules and you have the freedom to express yourself every day in so many ways. I get to express emotions and experiences through design that might be used on multiple products. I love it; every day you’re putting yourself into your work and the journey is so enjoyable and rewarding. Plus, you’re getting paid to do it!
When did you study at Shillington?
I studied at Shillington in 2012. I was blessed to have two incredible teachers, who both had really different styles but complimented the diversity of the industry. This style of study—an intensive three month course—was exactly what I was looking for and more beneficial to me than all my years at university.
What was your first job after graduation?
My first job after graduating was as an intern at Nana Judy, a local independently-owned street wear label. It was the dream opportunity for me, and two months in I was asked on full-time as their Graphic Designer. I learnt so much from this experience. Shillington’s learning structure helped prepare me for the fast-paced deadlines of the real world!
How did your experience at Shillington shape and influence your career?
Shillington provides a fantastic learning environment on so many levels. The fast-paced nature of the course ensures no two days are the same. It prepares you for the real world where jobs need to be finished in a matter of a few weeks or even a few days. Universities tend to drag out projects across a longer period of time which may allow you to develop your skills, but it doesn’t promote quick decision-making and concept development. Shillington allowed me to make sure my skills and knowledge of the Adobe programs where up-to-date. And if I’m being specific? My new knowledge of shortcuts and quick keys could possibly be the most beneficial thing I took from Shillington!
Any advice for someone trying to decide if they should sign up for the course?
It’s never an easy decision to take an alternate path than the majority. But usually, those who want it bad enough will find a way. Shillington definitely was that platform that allowed me to get into the career I wanted in a short space of time. It’s a fantastic course to develop your skills. The graphics industry is so broad. Whether you’re into food, fashion or travelling the globe, combining that with graphic design gives you the opportunity to create a life filled with passion and purpose! Melbourne has the most start-ups per capital in the world, you could be next. Live the dream!
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Ben Peters
Freelance Graphic Designer
Shillington definitely was that platform that allowed me to get into the career I wanted in a short space of time. It’s a fantastic course to develop your skills.
Freelance Graphic Designer
Ben Peters
What does your typical day look like?
I’m currently freelancing as a graphic artist and working on a number of exciting brands in the fashion and health industries. I spend my time working between home, local cafes and a office space in Brunswick. I’m a strong believer in using your skills and opportunities to create the life you want to live, and for me that is a good balance between work and life. I usually jump on to the computer first thing in the morning; I find this takes the stress of the rest of the day. I’ll grab a coffee and head to the office where I meet with the rest of the team. We’ll prioritise what we want to achieve today and then knock it out. At night I work on developing my personal projects. For me this structure allows me to generate a income but also keeps me motivated as I know I have time to do the things outside of work that are getting me closer to my goals.
What do you love about design?
I love that there are no rules and you have the freedom to express yourself every day in so many ways. I get to express emotions and experiences through design that might be used on multiple products. I love it; every day you’re putting yourself into your work and the journey is so enjoyable and rewarding. Plus, you’re getting paid to do it!
When did you study at Shillington?
I studied at Shillington in 2012. I was blessed to have two incredible teachers, who both had really different styles but complimented the diversity of the industry. This style of study—an intensive three month course—was exactly what I was looking for and more beneficial to me than all my years at university.
What was your first job after graduation?
My first job after graduating was as an intern at Nana Judy, a local independently-owned street wear label. It was the dream opportunity for me, and two months in I was asked on full-time as their Graphic Designer. I learnt so much from this experience. Shillington’s learning structure helped prepare me for the fast-paced deadlines of the real world!
How did your experience at Shillington shape and influence your career?
Shillington provides a fantastic learning environment on so many levels. The fast-paced nature of the course ensures no two days are the same. It prepares you for the real world where jobs need to be finished in a matter of a few weeks or even a few days. Universities tend to drag out projects across a longer period of time which may allow you to develop your skills, but it doesn’t promote quick decision-making and concept development. Shillington allowed me to make sure my skills and knowledge of the Adobe programs where up-to-date. And if I’m being specific? My new knowledge of shortcuts and quick keys could possibly be the most beneficial thing I took from Shillington!
Any advice for someone trying to decide if they should sign up for the course?
It’s never an easy decision to take an alternate path than the majority. But usually, those who want it bad enough will find a way. Shillington definitely was that platform that allowed me to get into the career I wanted in a short space of time. It’s a fantastic course to develop your skills. The graphics industry is so broad. Whether you’re into food, fashion or travelling the globe, combining that with graphic design gives you the opportunity to create a life filled with passion and purpose! Melbourne has the most start-ups per capital in the world, you could be next. Live the dream!
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Designer, Big Idea
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