Ksenia Eröss, MA
Our Exhibition Design graduate Ksenia Eröss now works as a designer and illustrator.
- Job: designer and illustrator
- Website
How did you come to study Exhibition Design at the University of Applied Sciences in Graz?
In 2008 I completed a Master's degree in Environmental Design at home in Kyiv (Ukraine). The content was interior architecture and interior design. After that I changed to Event Design and Floristry. But I quickly realised that I would like to do more design. That's why I was looking for a degree programme that would allow me to combine events and design. While searching online, I came across the Master's in Exhibition Design in Graz. Actually, I was looking for an English-language degree programme because I knew absolutely no German. But this degree programme was exactly what I was looking for - so I started learning German. At the same time, I sent my documents to the UAS, and luckily everything worked out. In September 2013, I moved to Graz, studied German for two semesters, took the entrance exam, and I made it!
How did you fare during your studies?
At the beginning everything was very new and unfamiliar, it was very challenging for me, especially language-wise. But at the same time, it was very exciting and interesting. I learned so much from my fellow students, e.g. graphics software, which helped me a lot.
How did it come about that you still live and work in Graz?
After only two semesters at the UAS, I started working part-time at KiGaPortal - an online portal for elementary education. On this portal, parents and kindergarten teachers can find ideas for everyday life with children, e.g. poems, songs, and learning games. The portal has existed since 2003 and is a huge pool of ideas. I started as an intern, now I work full time. At the moment I'm on leave, but I've been slowly working again since January 2021.
What do you like most about your job?
My job is just such a nice task! It was an advantage from the beginning that I can draw. I still work in an old school way, like I did at art school in Ukraine. I have specialised in nature illustration, i.e. watercolour illustrations of animals and plants, which can then be used to good effect in the design of materials for subject lessons. I love doing that!
Can you still use what you learned at the UAS in your current profession?
Yes, my training in exhibition design has led to a lot of further development at KiGa. For example, I developed an exhibition stand that we have already used at several fairs. Our stand can be adapted and offers different possibilities for product presentations. In my work, I actually use all the knowledge I gained at the UAS.
Would you say you have arrived well in Graz?
Yes, I immediately fell in love with Graz. Then I also found a very interesting job, it really couldn't have worked out better.