Valentina Ambrosi

After studying sciences in high school, I began the Bachelor of Graphic Design at the Academy of Fine Arts of Macerata, Italy. During my Bachelor’s programme I spent one year as an Erasmus student at the FBAUP, Faculdade de Belas Artes da Universidade do Porto of Porto, Portugal, where my horizons opened up. There I had the chance to see different working methods and experiment with new ways of learning. When I graduated in Italy in 2014, I did not feel ready to make the leap into the professional world, and I was eager to repeat the experience of living and studying abroad in an international environment. So, in order to develop my professional identity, I decided to apply for the International Master of Graphic Design programme at AKV|St.Joost in Breda.

During the Master’s programme I have had the chance to combine two important interests of mine: graphic design and childhood education. I investigate how graphic design can enhance children’s learning experiences. What are the advantages of using graphic design in childhood education? What is the relevance of design methods and creative expression with regard to kids’ development?