Anna Millar
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Design Te Tohu Paetahi mō te Hoahoa in Communication Design with minors in In Print: Publishing Practices & Digital Communication
Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa
She chose to study design at university because she wants to have a creative career, says Anna Millar who is currently studying communication design, publishing practices and digital communication.
“I love drawing and painting, and so I was looking for a job that would allow me to do that. I went to a career advisor and researched different jobs before deciding that graphic designer would be perfect for me. I chose AUT because I had heard that AUT’s design school was one of the best, and it would be practical and hands on. I also wanted to be involved with clubs and experience uni life.”
Starting her university studies with a diploma was a great option for Anna.
“I’ve always wanted to go to uni, but because I was homeschooled, I didn’t have NCEA credits and couldn’t get into the bachelor’s degree. This diploma meant that I was able to still study design, and then cross-credit my diploma courses to move into the second year of the Bachelor of Design Te Tohu Paetahi mō te Hoahoa. It means I can finish at the same time as if I had started with the bachelor’s degree.
“I think the diploma is great as it teaches you the basics of industry software, and gives you time to actually apply that knowledge and create beautiful designs, with lecturers supporting you through the whole process. I think that if people are unsure if they actually want to study design, this will be a great introduction for them.”
An enjoyable journey
The creativity is what she has enjoyed the most about her studies so far, says Anna.
“What I’ve liked most is how creative the programme is and the final designs I’ve been able to create. Juggling the different courses or trying out software that isn’t working how you expect can be a bit challenging, but most lecturers are so supportive and encouraging.
“I’m really enjoying the In Print: Publishing Practices minor because it’s helped extend my software skills which has been helpful for my major, as well as various typographic skills. It does have a big workload but it’s a really fun, encouraging environment where there’s a lot of support from the lecturers. My Digital Communication minor has also allowed me to branch out and try video editing and app design, which is something my major doesn’t cover.”
She is also making the most of her time at university.
“I love the clubs here at uni. I love how I can take a break from study, meet new people with the same interests as me and make new friends. I’ve had so much fun being involved in clubs and would recommend finding a club you like while you’re at AUT.”
Advice for other students
Anna has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their university journey.
“I’d suggest planning out when you’re going to do each homework task. Design can have a huge workload and once you are behind it’s hard to catch up.”
Writing a weekly to do list has been very helpful, she says.
“One thing that has been great for me is writing out every single task we have to do for that week, and assigning a day to each one. It means that I can be confident that I’m on track and it’s also satisfying to tick the tasks off once they’re completed.”
