Samuel McWilliams

Graphic Design

1. Where did you go on your placement?

I worked for ‘DW’ by Kanye West in both London and in Paris during Paris Fashion Week. London was the base for the studios before we went over to Paris for the fashion show.

2. What kind of work were you involved with while you were there?

I was involved in a range of different tasks, from helping to create prints for the collection, creating the logo and then putting it onto applications, scarves, patches, created patterns for a pair of gold chain embellished trousers and a Swarovski crystal biker jacket and many other tasks.

3. What was the experience like?

It was something I feel very fortunate to have experienced. At first I felt very overwhelmed, but the more time I spent there the more I felt in my element and really enjoyed myself. The fast paced environment of that industry made it exciting to get up in the mornings and go into the studio. It was very tiring too, as some days we worked right through the night, but the end satisfaction that we all got after the show made it all worthwhile.

4. What were the most valuable lessons learnt during your placement?

Probably the best thing I have learnt is to not be too precious with my work and not to take criticism too personally. I used to be a perfectionist, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but this made me take far too much time with my work so that when people had a different opinion on my work to me I would be far too protective and didn't take on board their constructive criticism.

The placement also taught me to be more professional in the working environment. I was at the studio working with people that I could only ever dream of meeting and (albeit after a few hours to get my composure back) I was able to see them as my boss and act accordingly, knowing when to say my opinion definitely helped me.

5. Do you feel that this placement has helped or will open any doors for you, if so what and how?

I certainly hope so. Now that I have had a taste of what the industry is like and what it entails to be successful in that industry I really can’t wait to get back out there. I made really good contacts over the course of my placement with the people I met during and on the night of the show, so it has helped me focus on how to get to where I want to be.

6. What advice or recommendations would you give to a student who is considering completing a placement as part of their degree?

Don't be afraid of showing people your work. Everyone has an opinion and when they comment on your work it is all for the greater good of the team. Teamwork is vital and how to work within a team is even more so. You’re there to learn with people who have been in the industry for a much longer time than you so they know what they are doing. They won’t expect you to know all the answers but if you can learn from them, it can only benefit you.

7. What are your plans now and in the future?

I’m in my final year at the moment and after I get through this year and graduate I will either think about doing a masters in London or try and get a job where I did my placement. In the meantime I’m currently working alongside my sister for our own fashion line called ‘Courtney Mc’ with our new collection ‘The Brother Line’.