Spotlight on Our Graduates

Name: ALESSIO AGNELLO
Title: FREELANCE GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Study Program: ARTS, LITERATURE AND COMMUNICATION
Degree obtained in: 2015

Describe your university experience after your DEC.

After graduating from LaSalle College, I got a full-time internship in Dubai where I had my first work experience as an assistant graphic designer. I also enrolled in an online university course provided by the University of Hertfordshire. After 2 years, I decided to physically attend university to get a hands-on experience for my last year.

I moved to London and immersed myself in my university studies, learning about the culture, and a more in-depth view on design. University was a challenging but rewarding experience. I quickly realized the significance of the workload and the learning materials.

I have definitely matured during the process. I’ve learned how to manage my time and make sacrifices to put my education first.

How did the program at LaSalle College contribute to your success at university?

My program helped me find my focus. During my studies at LaSalle College, I explored my creative options and it helped me find my true passions and interests. This was an invaluable experience as it has guided me to a fulfilling career which was refined during my time at University.

What is your best memory of the time spent at LaSalle College?

My favorite memories of LaSalle College were the workshops we used to do after being briefed on a project. It was a really diverse class of individuals and it was really interesting seeing how others approached projects in their own unique ways.

The class became a creative space where you could interact and help your classmates. It was a good way to learn and observe how other creatives work to add more knowledge to your process.

What was your favorite subject in the Arts, literature and communication program?

My favorite subject was graphic design. I immediately fell in love with it and that’s why I pursued it at university and now as a career. Although we covered a lot of other art mediums, the course helped introduce me to graphic design which was completely new to me.

Art history also played a vital role, giving me a good foundation for art movements and their influences.

Describe your general feeling during your first day, week or month of school.

I was extremely nervous on my first day. I was fresh out of high school and I didn't know anyone. I felt like I had more responsibilities. But my nervousness quickly turned into excitement once I started getting into the rhythm of things.

What advice would you give a student presently enrolled in the Arts, literature and communication program?

I would say don't be scared to try new things. This is the perfect time to fully explore paths you will find interesting and be passionate about. Reach out to others and start learning how to network, this will help you so much later on.

Also, if you do find your focus, research someone you find inspiring in that field and learn everything you can from them. Reach out to them, chances are they will be more than happy to answer any questions about their work and process or direct you to helpful learning materials.

What surprised you most when you entered university?

I was surprised by the massive step in responsibility. It is entirely what you make of it and the amount you learn depends entirely on your determination. You dictate what your projects are, how you approach them and how much time and research you put into each one.

This is why it is important to take initiative in college and learn these skills early on. This will give you a huge advantage. Listen carefully to the advice of your mentors and classmates, this will help you grow.