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This semester, the Professional Practice module provided a valuable insight into the skills and mindset required to work confidently within the design industry. Overall, I found this to be a really interesting and proactive module that complemented my more design-focused classes well. It offered a strong balance between understanding industry expectations and developing myself as a professional designer, rather than focusing solely on technical outputs. Throughout the semester, we explored a wide range of topics, including employability, freelancing, workplace readiness, business support, and how to present ideas effectively. These areas helped me gain a clearer understanding of what life beyond university may look like and what is expected of designers in real-world professional environments. I found myself particularly engaged during discussions around employability and industry practices, as they made the transition from student to professional feel more realistic and achievable. The majority of the classes were enjoyable and informative, and I felt very engaged throughout the term. I often found myself picking up new skills, tips, and ways of thinking that I could immediately apply to both my academic work and my future career. While some classes were less interactive compared to my other modules, I don’t necessarily see this as a negative. In fact, I felt that this structure helped me focus more on absorbing content, listening, and taking meaningful notes without the pressure of balancing hands-on project work at the same time. This allowed me to reflect more deeply on the material being discussed. One of the highlights of the module for me was the pitch presentation project. This was an opportunity to explore a topic I was already familiar with and interested in, while also developing my confidence in presenting ideas clearly and professionally. The project encouraged entrepreneurial thinking and helped me consider design not just as a creative practice, but as a problem-solving and value-driven discipline. Presenting my work to my peers pushed me out of my comfort zone and strengthened my communication skills, which I see as essential for future professional settings. Although there were areas where I found certain topics more challenging, particularly when the content felt more theoretical, I still recognise their importance. These moments helped me develop patience, discipline, and a better understanding of the broader context in which design operates. I also appreciated how the module encouraged reflection, as it helped me recognise my own growth and areas for improvement. Overall, this module has been fun, engaging, and extremely beneficial. It has helped shape me not only as a designer but as a professional preparing to enter the industry. I now feel more confident in my abilities, more aware of industry expectations, and better equipped to approach future opportunities with clarity and confidence.

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