RAFFLES College of Higher Education (RCHE), Singapore, is a private tertiary institute that offers comprehensive courses in design, business and science.
Over the years, it has become known as a centre that grooms local and international award winners.
Notable alumni and students include Alldressup principal designer Sven Tan and Grace Eliana Sugiarto, winner of the Triumph Inspiration Awards, Singapore.
Malaysian student Joanne Lee enrolled upon recommendation from her friends at Raffles Design Institute, Singapore.
Last year, she became one of RCHE’s Visual Communication students to win a bronze in the prestigious Crowbar Awards.
The Crowbar Awards were created in 2001, organized by the Association of Accredited Advertising Agents Singapore.
By 2005, the awards were opened to full-time tertiary students worldwide. There are five categories open for entries every year: advertising, design, photography, interactive and film.
Lee entered the competition in the design category. She created a packaging concept for Fanfaron’s butter knifes.
Her artwork consisted of colourful vector art to complement the tropical bird design on the knife handle. Her concept comes with a sleek, plastic casing to display the various candy colours.
“I wanted to make it useful but with an eye-catching exterior so that it grabs attention,” said Lee.
“I got the inspiration from my research on the company. The company has a fancy, yet colourful design concept to make things look interesting.
“On the other hand, I wanted to enhance the product’s impact on the shelf.”
To improve the design capabilities and industry knowledge of the students, those enrolled at RCHE are required to undergo an internship before they graduate.
Industry experience allows designers the chance to build up their portfolio.
It also gives them the opportunity to network and make friends with people who can help them in their resume.
As a second year student, Lee is currently an intern in a top advertising agency – Ogilvy Rocket Asia – working in the creative department as a designer.
Lee said it had been a good experience.
“Its difference from what we learn in school. What I experience here is more towards commercial design which allows me to know more about the industry. I learn a lot working here.
The award-winning student is keeping her options open when asked about her plans.
“I might continue studying for my degree but I’ll think about it when the time comes.”
For details on the Raffles College of Higher Education, visit www.raffles-college.edu.sg
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