Graduates Honored in November/December 2021 Ceremony
In a recent graduation ceremony, a group of aspiring artists and designers received their hard-earned certificates, marking the start of their creative careers. Among the graduates were Nisha Puthenveetil, who earned a Certificate in Fine Arts, Stephanie Rutkowske with an Advanced Certificate in Graphic Design, and Feba Alex, who graduated with a Professional Certificate in Web Design.
David Davis, Christina Karamanos, and Eduardo Lozano also earned Professional Certificates in Multimedia Arts, while Kaye Self completed a Professional Certificate in Marketing Design, and Karen Moore graduated with a Professional Certificate in Graphic Design.
Vocational certificate programs, designed to prepare students quickly for the workforce, have been the stepping stone for these graduates. These programs focus on practical skills, real-world experience, and in-demand trades, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of their respective industries.
The programs often include hands-on training, such as lab-based practice or externships, and specialize in areas like electrical work, healthcare roles, business administration, IT, and cybersecurity. Many programs also offer flexible scheduling to accommodate students' personal and professional commitments, and career services to help graduates find job opportunities tailored to their skill levels.
Admission requirements vary by program, but often include academic prerequisites, application materials, and, for healthcare-related vocational certificates, current professional licensure or relevant credentials. Some programs consider applications individually, particularly if applicants do not meet all stated criteria but can provide suitable justification.
Arleen Lorrance, a distinguished graduate, offered words of wisdom to the new graduates, quoting, "Be the change that you wish to see in the world." Wishes of success were extended to the graduates as they ventured into their creative careers, eager to make their mark in the world of art and design.
- Stephanie Rutkowske, having graduated with an Advanced Certificate in Graphic Design, is now poised to apply her new skills to the lifestyle sector, aspiring to create visually impactful designs that reflect contemporary trends.
- As part of their education-and-self-development, many graduates, such as David Davis with a Professional Certificate in Multimedia Arts, may wish to further enhance their graphic design abilities through continuing courses or workshops, integrating cutting-edge techniques in their future design projects.