Abby O'Brien

Cardiff and USW were the perfect match for my design career

Design
Graphic Communications student smiling at camera. She is wearing a black leather jacket and there are green chairs in the background.

Cardiff’s dynamic, creative energy was a huge draw, and I knew I’d found the right place.


Finding the right place to study

I’ve always known I wanted to work in graphics but wasn’t sure where to study until my college lecturer recommended USW. This course caught my eye because it’s modern and technical, focusing on digital design skills rather than just traditional print methods. Cardiff’s dynamic, creative energy was a huge draw, and I knew I’d found the right place.

Studying here has given me so many industry connections and hands-on opportunities. Every year, we work on real-world briefs from local companies, and I’ve had the chance to collaborate with organisations like Gwent Police and the Royal Mint. Each project offers a unique challenge, and these experiences have shown me what it’s like to work in the industry. Plus, being around classmates who share a passion for design creates such a supportive and inspiring environment.

Find your course

EVERY YEAR, WE WORK ON REAL-WORLD BRIEFS FROM LOCAL COMPANIES... EACH PROJECT OFFERS A UNIQUE CHALLENGE, AND THESE EXPERIENCES HAVE SHOWN ME WHAT IT’S LIKE TO WORK IN THE INDUSTRY.

Abby O'Brien

Graphic Communication student

Living and learning in Cardiff 

Living in Cardiff has only enhanced my experience. The city’s creative community is lively, with plenty of events, exhibitions, and spaces that bring people together. The facilities at USW are top-notch, with resources like MacBook rentals, camera equipment, and VFX tools that help us bring our ideas to life.

After graduating, I’m hoping to join a design agency. My advice to future students? Dive in, explore every opportunity, and make the most of it—this course is a fantastic experience that offers so much if you’re ready to immerse yourself in it!

Employability and Careers

Interested in Design?

Our design courses are created with industry in mind and we aim to prepare you for the workplace by the time you graduate.