A Design Student Reviews SIM-RMIT's Bachelor of Design Programme

Despite having a diploma in design from LASALLE, Pauline realised there were still things she could learn from SIM-RMIT University’s Bachelor of Design in Communication Design.

“SIM-RMIT’s curriculum is focused on user experience, research, and design for communities,” she explained. “This is different from what I used to study, where I used to view design as a tool for self-expression rather than for problem-solving.”

“This helped me to create richer design solutions that are not only visually appealing but also address the concerns of the audience.”
 

The discipline broadened Pauline’s perspective and trained her to think and dig deeper into problems, making her an independent and inquisitive learner.

Aside from the design philosophy, the rigorous curriculum with multiple deadlines and tight timelines also prepared her for Singapore’s fast-paced working environments.

Currently interning at Studio DAM, the 23-year-old recalled, “My toughest time would be juggling my graduation showcase while working my final year project and studying modules outside of design.”

With a heavy workload, Pauline confessed that there were times she was mentally exhausted to the point of burnout.

However, it was all worth it in the end.

“The four months of planning the grad show were indeed tough, but seeing the event come to life felt like all the sleepless nights were worth it,” she reflected.

Calling it a celebration of design, Pauline described, “It was nice to see the faculty come together and showcase our brilliant works to our lecturers, friends, and families.”

Her hard work also paid off when she received the SIM-RMIT Outstanding Research Award in front of her loved ones as a recognition of her originality and innovation demonstrated in her works.

“It made me think about my past five years pursuing an education in Singapore,” Pauline reminisced. “There were a few times I wanted to give up, but my perseverance finally bore fruit in the form of academic acknowledgement.”

“It was a huge emotional moment for me that I’d remember for a long time.”

 

CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

As part of the RMIT’s curriculum, Pauline also got to travel to Melbourne to visit the RMIT University campus for two weeks. There, she learnt image-making techniques, like risograph printing and map-making.

At the end of the trip, students were to create a zine based on their ethnographic study of Singapore and Melbourne, comparing the two countries with their cultural lens. They even held a mini zine exhibition at the RMIT campus.

“It was my first trip to Melbourne and I was nervous yet excited about the new environment,” Pauline reminisced. “Fortunately, there was a SIM lecturer that came with us and was able to guide us in our stay there, making sure everyone was safe and enjoying the trip.”

“The RMIT faculty also gave us a warm welcome and showed us around the city. Overall, it was a pleasant cultural immersion experience that I would recommend.

Locally, there was also much exposure and support for foreign students.

“There’s a lot of international students from different majors,” the Indonesian student noted. “I like how there is a student association for each country, like InSIM for Indonesians."

Coupled with orientation and welcome events for international students, Pauline believes SIM made it easy for international students to transition life in Singapore.

“I got to know a bunch of them and learn more about their culture so that was a pretty fun thing for me,” she recounted.

As part of the Open House 2023 committee, Pauline also got to share her experience of studying in Singapore to potential students.

Describing her participation as rewarding, she said, “I was able to talk to my lecturers and give feedback about the course, while also sharing stories about my course and design experiences to aspiring designers.”
 

MAKING EVERY MOMENT COUNT

As a reminder to not take the time with your peers their granted, Pauline encouraged her juniors to “build a good relationship with everyone” and “cherish these moments and create the best of memories in the final chapter of your education journey.”

“Who knows, they may be your future work partners,” she laughed.

Self-reflection is also important, Pauline emphasised.

“Take every step of this journey as a point of reflection: how have you done, how you can do better, and how can it help you in the future,” she stressed.

“Reflecting on all those points have helped me to recognise my own growth in my education and professional journey.”
 

Learn more about the SIM-RMIT University’s Bachelor of Design in Communication Design today.