On November 24, more than 600 individuals attended the 2022 GradX Evolve opening night.
Swinburne University of Technology's 2022 GradX Evolve exhibition showcases creativity and innovation.
The Swinburne School of Design and Architecture's (SoDA) annual showcase was formally inaugurated on November 24, 2022.
More than 250 Swinburne design and architecture graduates are showcasing their work.
More than 600 guests from the student and alumni communities, industry and the wider community attended the opening night, and the two-week event is expected to draw over 2,000 visitors.
Professor Jane Burry, SODA Dean, highlighted that the 2022 graduating class's work exhibits an exceptional level of development.
He also emphasized how the theme for this year, "Evolve," was chosen to recognize how students have had to evolve and adapt to deal with unanticipated challenges throughout their academic careers. He also drew attention to how it represents the journey of graduating students as they finish their coursework and enter the workforce. He added that it is crucial to honor the graduates and their time at Swinburne because they will be the future's creative leaders and innovators.
The struggle has been enjoyable for Nader Burjawi, a graduating architecture student and multiple GradX award winners.
He stated that, while the journey had not been easy, he had enjoyed learning new things and meeting new people.
Jo-Ann Kellock, chief executive officer of the Design Institute of Australia, participated in the exhibition's opening and stated that GradX is all about ensuring that graduates with the right attitude and personal investment have access to the opportunities they need to succeed.
He emphasized how, in addition to qualifications, attitude, opportunity, and personal investment are three factors that give someone an advantage in successfully managing their transition from education to a design job.
The GradX awards are more than just a token; they are intended to provide students with direct benefits.
With the help of the university and SoDA's vast network of friends and supporters, 65 student awards were sponsored, totaling nearly $9,000 in cash prizes and priceless professional development opportunities such as folio consultations and opportunities to network with business titans.
Nadar mentioned how the awards, along with the idea of being appreciated as a student, are both important. He also highlighted the role of a teacher and how comforting it is for a student who's just about to graduate, especially when they extend their support till the end.
GradX, according to Associate Dean Education Nicole Wragg, is an opportunity for students to present their work to leading professionals in their fields, and industry partners attend the event with recruitment in mind.
Swinburne design graduates, according to Associate Professor Wragg, are sought after by industry for their strategic thinking, creativity, and passion.
He also emphasized how teaching that is future-focused and learning that is integrated with the workplace foster these qualities.
GradX Evolve is on display at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus until December 9th in the Advanced Manufacturing and Design Centre (AMDC).