A year abroad: how to boost your studies in graphic design
LISAA offers an international placement year between the first and second years of the master’s course in Digital Art Direction. It is an opportunity for students to further their skills in a multicultural environment. Director of studies François Vermorel explains the advantages of such a choice.
LISAA: WHY IS THE PLACEMENT YEAR OPTIONAL?
François Vermorel: The main objective of the placement year is to enable students to spend a year abroad, should they so wish. International experience is of considerable added-value for graduates starting out in the graphic design professions, whether it be animated media or UX design. Our environment is globalised and it is important to speak English and, above all, have an open mind and to think on an international scale.
International experience is of considerable added-value for graduates starting out in the graphic design professions.
François Vermorel, director of studies for the master’s course in Digital Art Direction
That said, our students don’t all have the same means and some need to start working quickly, so this year is therefore optional.
WHY IS IT BETWEEN THE FIRST AND SECOND YEAR?
Our second master’s year is a professional training contract, the logic behind this being that it leads to quick recruitment. It would be a shame to not take advantage of this process!
The idea is that first-year students can leave from July and come back in April, to benefit from the school’s support in finding a professional training contract: speed recruiting, support for job offers, etc. Nine months abroad will make their professional profiles even more attractive for businesses.
WHAT WILL STUDENTS DO DURING THIS PLACEMENT YEAR?
The placement year should be an opportunity to undertake a project validated by the school. There are two main options: a semester on a foreign campus or a six-month international work placement. We can, of course, validate other projects students may have, if they make sense.
The placement year should be an opportunity to undertake a project validated by the school.
François Vermorel, director of studies for the master’s course in Digital Art Direction
After their second year, our students are already efficient. They have no difficulty applying to universities offering ambitious courses. Their skills enable them to attract the attention of businesses despite language barriers. They are in a position to have a successful international experience.
