“The computer science graduate with a passion for design. Meet Karl.”

It takes strength, determination and drive to bravely follow your dreams and transform a passion into a profession. Computer Science graduate Karl Paul Baldacchino scored a career at Jackpotjoy Group’s IT department, discovered his passion for design at ICE Malta and moved on to the company’s design team. This is his story.

How did you score a career at Jackpotjoy Group?

Being a Computer Science graduate, I initially joined the IT department at Jackpotjoy Group. I’ve always had a flair, love, and interest in design so I decided to enroll in ICE Malta’s MySuccess Graphic Designer Associate course, which quickly made me realise how passionate about design I really am. Luckily, the role of junior graphic designer came up and thankfully both managers from the respective departments agreed and believed that I could fit in this role. Fast forward 5 months and I can happily say that I am a member of an awesome design team.

Which study experience features did you find to be most beneficial?

Practical sessions. Since I was self-taught, I was looking to gain industry insight as regards to what more I could achieve with Adobe tools. Having constant guidance from an industry practitioner was extremely valuable.

Why is practical learning so important?

Especially from a design perspective, the advantages of practical learning are unmatched. Theory teaches you through the experience of others, whereas practical learning helps you acquire the specific techniques that become your everyday practices.

Share your next steps/career goals.

Having just joined this industry, I would like to explore and learn as many aspects of design as I can through experience, continuous training and support as provided by the company. While I definitely won’t limit myself, I have set short term and long term goals which I’m focused on achieving.

Your message to students who have a passion for design.

Follow your passion. Design is a never-ending process where you can re-imagine stuff in your own way. As for industry purposes, the best advice I once read was – build a portfolio not only on what you’ve done but on what you want to do.

What is the secret to career success?

Get out of your comfort zone. Aim to transform your can’ts into your cans and before you know it, your dream will start to convert itself into attainable goals. Create a good base of knowledge, gain industry skills and cultivate a love for learning – this is what will help you achieve your dreams.

Kudos to Karl for scoring a dream career – he’s getting paid for doing what he loves. We have loads of admiration for the team at Jackpotjoy Group who supported Karl’s move from IT to Design. This design team recognised Karl’s talent, acknowledged his brand loyalty and empowered him to follow his dreams – Jackpotjoy Group, cheers to you.