News Archive 2010

Step into the quaint campus of raffles design institute and you’ll greeted by an atmosphere of unique inventiveness made alive by the impressive display of students designs at its reception.

Established in 1990, the school develops creative professionals and entrepreneurs in the areas of Fashion Design, Interior Design, Interactive Media Design (Multimedia Design, Animation, and Games Design), 3D Design (Product, Furniture, and jewellery design), Graphic Design and Fashion Marketing (Fashion Marketing & Management, Retail Management and Fashion Communication & Journalism).

The Education provider also spans major cities in China, Thailand, Malaysia, India, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand.

Stepping out, stepping up

Industry experience might kick start a career in design but propelling to success requires the support of a good foundation in design concepts.

Fashion Design student Zhang Xiaoqing has experience this firsthand. “ Because what I studied in my previous college was very basic knowledge, I had to learn a lot of things by myself,” the 31 year old reveals

Having had experience in modeling and starting her own garment-making business in Vietnam, Xiangqing might be considered an experience veteran by some. However, her desire to pursue formal training in design prompted her to enroll with Raffles Design Institute in Singapore.

My friend in the fashion business from Europe and Vietnam recommended Raffles Design Institute to me. When I arrived, I checked out the different schools. They’re all doing well, but among all the schools, I think Raffles Design Institute’s curriculum is stronger, which I think is very important, “ she says.

The school not only provides a holistic curriculum, but also presents opportunities for students to showcase their talent and innovations on an international platform. Xiaoqing had a chance to participate in a design competition for a national costume to be worn by the winner of Miss Singapore Universe.

It was a really great experience for me because I’ve never done a costume before,” she enthuses. “It’s about the colour and the structure, and costume design was really new for me, because what I did before was always ready- to-wear. So it was really out of my safety zone.”

Through that experience, Xiaoqing sharpened her communication skills. “ I learnt how to cooperate with clients who have specific requirement, so I think that helped me for the future a lot,” she adds. “It also gave me more motivation.”

Another source of motivation is her fellow pers and inspirational teachers. “ I like interacting with all the other students,” Xiaoqing says. “Also I really enjoy the experiences that my teachers share with me. When I have a question, whether technique-wise or design concept-wise, I can always approach them.”

She continues, “I like the challenge of the course as well. It’s not for the faint of heart, so you have to be very strong and passionate about it.”