Western Sydney University graduate finds purpose, one design at a time

For Bachelor of Design (Visual Communication) graduate Chloe Lavender, choosing to study at Western Sydney University was an easy decision. Drawn to the University’s strong reputation for diversity and inclusivity, as well as its commitment to social and environmental responsibility, Chloe found that these values closely aligned with her own.

With a passion for art and culture, she was inspired to pursue a degree that would allow her creativity to intersect with social impact. Throughout her studies, she explored design as a powerful tool for environmental and social change, while also developing a practical skillset suited to a rapidly evolving digital world.

Having graduated last week, Chloe reflects on her university journey.

Why did you choose to study at Western Sydney University?

I chose Western Sydney due to location and reputation. I wanted to go to a university that was well known for its diversity and inclusivity as well as being environmentally and socially responsible.

How did you decide this was the course for you?

I chose this course due to my passion for art and culture, throughout university much of my design work was centred around environmental and social change. Many of my projects explored issues such as sustainability, community awareness, and the impact design can have on society.

Also understanding how digital the world was becoming, I wanted a course that I could utilise as a strong career path as businesses and organisations rely heavily on visual communication across websites, social media, advertising, and digital platforms. As technology continues to grow, graphic designers and creatives help create engaging and effective content that connects with audiences.

What have been the highlights of your university experience?

The opportunities and doors that Western Sydney University offers to students are a privilege as well as a highlight.

The study abroad program organised through the University gave me the opportunity to study at an international university in Milan, Italy. I was taught and lectured by Italian professors who delivered classes focused on Italian media and marketing, which broadened my understanding of the industry and its cultural influences.

The Sydney Opera House Build program gave me the opportunity to collaborate closely with architects and engineers in a team environment. Through this experience, I developed strong communication and collaboration skills while working together to solve design and construction challenges.

I also thoroughly enjoyed being able to go to class every day and leave with a new perspective or new knowledge on a worldly topic, but I would say the people I met along the way was a standout. I have never been surrounded by such interesting and authentic people. Being in a creative degree opens you up to so many different cultures and influences which I will always appreciate.

What’s next after graduation?

I am grateful to have secured a full-time job at a branding and strategy agency and have been there since January 2026.

What's your advice to others considering university study?

I think at the end of the day if you are passionate and have the drive for it then go for it and if you feel as though you don’t have it then keep looking for what drives and motivates you. I found that drive doing this degree at Western Sydney University and of course my lecturers who taught me over my degree supported that. I could write a book about how amazing every one of them were.

ENDS.

19 June 2026
Photo credit: Kyisoe Han
Lauren Coskerie, Senior Media and PR Advisor