“Connect with industry now, show your face, make the effort.”

— HAILEY SIMS

Tell us a little about your experiences since. Where have you worked? Where do you work now?

A whole mixed bag haha. After completing my studies at TAFE, I pursued a bridging pathway that led me to a year at Curtin University, where I graduated in 2013, ranking among the top 25 students. Subsequently, I gained valuable experience as an in-house designer at RAWA (Racing and Wagering WA), worked as a designer at a mid-large agency, and engaged in freelance projects with smaller studios from 2013 to 2019. In 2019, I relocated to Melbourne, initially working as a UI Designer on a freelance basis.

Over time, I seized the opportunity to contribute to small to mid-scale digital agencies. In 2023, I decided to take a career break, dedicating 11 months to travel. I have since returned to Perth, where I am actively reconnecting with the industry and actively seeking full-time employment opportunities.

How did you get your first graphic design job?

I emailed and did everything. I was knocked back, told I was second countless times for 6 months after graduating Curtin. I ended up getting my in-house role through Seek.

What advice would you give to Graphic Design students studying at NM TAFE right now?

Connect with industry now, show your face, make the effort.

What do you think are the most important qualities in a graphic designer?

Several qualities stand out to me as crucial for a graphic designer:

Willingness to Take Risks and Learn from Failure:
A good designer should be open to taking chances and embracing the possibility of failure. Recognising that imperfection is part of the learning process allows for continuous growth and development.

Innovative and Holistic Thinking:
Thinking beyond the conventional and exploring diverse possibilities is key. A designer should consider factors such as responsiveness, audience, and accessibility, ensuring that the design is not only visually appealing but also functional and inclusive.

Emphasis on Collaboration:
Collaboration is a cornerstone of effective design. A designer should be open to sharing their work, inviting valuable input from others. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the design but also opens the door to alternative and potentially superior ideas.

Please list some awesome new developments happening right now in the design industry.

I need to get familiar with the current environment at TAFE but I'm particularly eager to see a stronger emphasis on UI and UX. Given the substantial role they play in the industry, I've observed a notable gap between the graphic and web sectors, despite their inherent similarities, which is surprising to me.