Sam Armstrong’s NoLo Design Journey at York St John
York St John University Graphic Design student Sam Armstrong has seen their creativity make an impact far beyond the lecture hall. Their work was recently featured across York as part of the NoLo Design project. A live brief promoting low and no-alcohol alternatives that gave students the chance to see their designs showcased publicly and in online news.
I had the privilege of speaking to Sam about their achievement, their experience studying Graphic Design at York St John, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Why did you choose to study Graphic Design?
Sam: “I chose graphic design particularly because I have always had an interest in art and design but wasn’t sure specifically what I wanted to do with it. I took the subject in college and then chose to study it at university as I was set on design as a career. The diversity of the subject and freedom of approach were the main appeals to me.”
What was it like seeing your work displayed so prominently at such a big local event?
Sam: “It was surreal seeing my work out and about in York and in online News Articles. Besides from a few instances from commission work, I have never seen my designs presented in public to such an extent. It gave me much more confidence about my work and I feel ready to approach professional briefs after I leave uni.”
How did your experience on the Graphic Design BA (Hons) course help prepare you for working on a live brief like this?
Sam: “One main thing we experience is picking apart a brief to its smallest details and working from keywords and conducting appropriate research. I think this helped me a lot in fine tuning the visual style of the designs and communicating to the right audience, in this instance, publicans and no / low alcohol consumers.”
What has been the most valuable thing you’ve learned from this project and your course so far?
Sam: “At first, I found open ended briefs intimidating as they require creative interpretation while meeting very specific goals. Learning how to respond appropriately by analysing the briefs more in depth and developing creative/technical skills has been invaluable. These experiences have made me feel much more prepared for entering the professional field. The inclusion of live briefs like no and low has also been beneficial, offering real world experience working with clients.”
What would you say to future students thinking about studying Graphic Design at York St John?
Sam: “The course is good for experimentation and leading you to find your specific design interests. If you are interested in design but aren’t sure what specifically you want to do (like I was), studying graphic design can involve a variety of mediums and you can get stuck in with whatever you would like to do, while learning a bunch on the side. There is a strong emphasis on you as a designer and finding your niche. Don’t worry if you feel you aren’t up to scratch in technical skills, there are many opportunities to learn along the way through workshops and skills sessions.”
Looking Ahead
From building creative confidence to seeing their designs showcased across York, Sam Armstrong’s journey through the Graphic Design course at York St John has been all about growth, discovery and opportunity.
Their work on the NoLo Design project shows just how far creativity can go when it’s supported and encouraged. With the course’s focus on experimentation, collaboration, and real-world experience, Sam has been able to turn their ideas into something brilliant and take the first steps towards an exciting career in design.
Follow Sam’s LinkedIn to keep up with his fantastic work.
Learn more about York St John University’s Graphic Design BA (Hons) course, and how to apply through clearing.