Professional Development Week - Reflection

24/08/21 - 10/07/22 (Week 8 ) 
Caitlyn Aurelia Tjandra (0339381)/BDCM
PDW - Reflection



During week 8, our schedule was packed with six mandatory online workshops, each focusing on various design and other life aspect topics. Not only did the workshops provide valuable insights, but they also showcased captivating stories shared by outside professionals. It was a week filled with enriching knowledge and firsthand experiences, broadening our understanding of design and its applications beyond the classroom.

The workshop that I have attended:
  • "Reality Bytes from student to young professionals" by MAYBANK
  • "How Not To Produce Boring Graphic Design" by ET AL DESIGN CONSULTANT
  • "Power of LinkedIn and How to beat ATS" by PETRON

  • “Design & Digital Interfaces: Understanding People to Drive Change via Technology" by UNIVERSITY OF DUNDEE SCOTLAND
  • "Get Design Work and Supercharge Your Career" by Cult Creative

From the six workshops I have attended above, I have chosen 3 of the most memorable ones to reflect upon as I felt that I am more connected to these topics than others.

"Reality Bytes from Student to young professionals" by MAYBANK

In this captivating workshop, we had the privilege of hosting representatives from Maybank, along with their seasoned team of professionals, who generously shared their invaluable real-world experiences. The insights gained from listening to their personal stories provided a powerful glimpse into what lies ahead after graduation. However, what truly struck a chord with me was the presence of a fresh graduate who had recently embarked on her journey with Maybank. Hearing her story was nothing short of fascinating, as I felt an instant connection and could wholeheartedly relate to her experiences, knowing that she had once been in our very shoes.

The tips and tricks shared during the workshop on navigating the corporate world were like pearls of wisdom that will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors, especially when the opportunity arises to work with large-scale corporate entities. One particular piece of advice resonated deeply: the importance of attempting to solve challenges independently before seeking assistance. This rang true to my own internship experience, where I discovered the significance of perseverance and exploring alternative approaches before approaching busy senior colleagues for help. By demonstrating a proactive attitude and a genuine desire to learn, we not only reduce the burden on our seniors but also showcase our motivation to grow and excel.

"Power of LinkedIn and How to beat ATS" by PETRON

In this enlightening workshop, the focus was on harnessing the power of LinkedIn, a platform I was already familiar with but had only scratched the surface of its potential. As someone who had successfully secured an internship through LinkedIn, I believed I had a good grasp of its capabilities. However, this workshop proved to be a game-changer, revealing hidden features and providing a comprehensive tutorial that I had never ventured into before.

The insights shared during the workshop were eye-opening and instrumental in elevating my LinkedIn account and profile to new heights. I realized the importance of crafting a strong and compelling online presence, one that would leave a lasting impression on recruiters. The tips and advice offered during the workshop helped me refine my profile, enabling me to focus on the essential aspects that companies seek in potential candidates. It was a transformative experience that helped me streamline and optimize my LinkedIn presence, ultimately increasing my chances of landing a job in the highly competitive landscape I find myself in as a soon-to-be graduate.

By the end of the workshop, I felt equipped with a newfound understanding of how to utilize LinkedIn effectively, strategically positioning myself to attract the attention of hiring managers and recruiters. I was empowered to present my skills, experiences, and achievements in a concise and impactful manner, ensuring that I captured their interest and stood out from the crowd.

Overall, this workshop was not only insightful but also timely, providing valuable guidance as I navigate the challenging job market. With a revamped LinkedIn profile and the knowledge gained from the workshop, I am confident that I am now better equipped to secure employment opportunities and embark on the next chapter of my professional journey.

"Get Design Work and Supercharge Your Career" by Cult Creative

This highly anticipated workshop exceeded my expectations, particularly because I was already familiar with Cult Creative's captivating content from stumbling upon it on TikTok. As a future designer, finding job placements in Malaysia has proven to be challenging, which is why I found their specialized platform for creatives incredibly valuable. What truly resonated with me was Cult Creative's vision to revolutionize the creative industry in Malaysia. While designers are treated decently, there are still companies that fail to recognize the true value of our work and offer unfair compensation. 

The tips and advice provided during the workshop shed light on what companies seek in a creative employee, equipping us with vital insights and a realistic glimpse into the real world. I am immensely grateful for the engaging nature of the workshop, as it catered specifically to the unique goals and needs of designers. This distinct focus allowed us to delve into the intricacies of the creative job industry and gain the knowledge necessary to navigate its challenges.

Overall, I believe this workshop served as a beacon of hope for aspiring designers like myself. Cult Creative's commitment to addressing the recruitment necessities specific to our field is commendable. By offering valuable guidance and industry-specific knowledge, they have empowered us to better understand what to expect and how to thrive in the creative job market. I am filled with gratitude for this enriching experience and for the opportunity to be part of a community that recognizes the distinctiveness and significance of our creative endeavors.

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