Graduate Testimonials:
A Few Examples from My Teaching Journey (2015–Present)
The following section contains testimonials from my graduates during my teaching tenure from 2015 to the present, in both Germany and the United States.
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“I had the pleasure to attend design courses with Zoya Laskowski during my bachelor studies at FDI Düsseldorf. The training and...
experience I recieved through these classes were significantly useful to me, not only during my time as a student but until today for my professional career path. Zoya thought us all the necessary skills to use the Adobe programs, especially Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. In addition to learning the program‘s function, we also recieved an intensive training in graphic design and layout, skillsets necessary to communicate any content through visual language. This was specifically helpful for me as I created and designed many portfolios and other visual layouts and content for my works during my bachelors and masters studies. After finishing school, I started a full-time position as in-house patternmaker at Thom Browne, New York. On a daily basis my Adobe llustrator and InDesign skills are required to work on technical drawings and techpacks the are created alongside the patterns I am constructing. ”
Pattern maker at
Thom Browne, Inc. NYC
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“I had the chance to join Professor Zoya's portfolio prep and presentation class. With her guidance I built my portfolio website from...
scratch, selecting and perfecting key design projects to showcase my skillset. This experience gave me valuable real-world insights, like effectively communicating my designs and connecting with other designers and colleagues. I am currently working as the Multimedia Designer for factor 110, a position I secured thanks to the portfolio website I developed with Professor Zoya's help. The website played a crucial role in earning me an interview and ultimately the job.”
Multimedia Designer at
factor 110, OKC
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“My Communication Design and CAD courses with Professor Zoya during my fashion design studies really opened my eyes to graphic design...
and digital creation. Although the focus was fashion, I quickly fell in love with the digital tools and skills I was learning. These skills have been a huge asset in my DTG design career, helping me bring ideas to life in ways I never imagined. The course truly sparked my passion for digital design!”
Designer DTG Business TB International
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“Since I graduated during the Covid pandemic and had already started doing more and more digitally during that time, ...
your courses provided me with an excellent foundation. They helped me go beyond just fashion and establish a foothold in other Adobe programs, while also developing an understanding of graphic design.
Now, I work as a freelance designer and creative strategist, creating brandings (logos, print, CI, brand identity, UI/UX), creative concepts, and content for various platforms. I am currently furthering my education in CGI. Thanks to the foundation you provided for Adobe CC, I was able to learn After Effects and Blender over time and develop my graphic design skills all the way to animation.
These skills also helped me secure a management position at a Danish interior company, where I was able to do pioneering work with my German team as an example for 22 other countries.
Thanks to your teaching, I have always been able to communicate professionally with printing companies and clients. “Learning new software” has never intimidated me, because I already had a solid understanding of the systems from your courses. Oh, and the logo I designed in your class back then is still being used to this day... ”
Designer & Creative Strategist, Based in Düsseldorf & Munich
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“Professor Zoya’s class was instrumental in helping me create a professional portfolio. Her knowledge of industry...
standards and current trends prepared me to enter the job market and interview with confidence. I appreciated that her feedback was tailored to each student, and her focus was on helping you showcase your unique style and abilities.”
Graphic Designer, Creative Marketing at Globe Life, OKC
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“Attending courses with Zoya was a transformative experience that not only advanced my skills but also shaped my approach to...
creativity and teaching—an impact I now pass on to others through my work as an Artist, Digital Fashion Designer, and Lecturer. In the course, I gained foundational knowledge in Adobe Softwares and Graphic Design, which became a crucial stepping stone in my career. These skills made my workflow with creative tools much more efficient and allowed me to quickly adapt to new programs which I now use daily.
In my profession, I’m constantly working with new technologies and creative challenges, and Zoya’s teaching prepared me perfectly to tackle them with confidence and a problem-solving mindset.
Even outside of work, I often find myself applying the skills I learned. My sense of design and aesthetics has been sharpened, enriching both my professional and personal projects. What truly made this course stand out, however, was Zoya’s energy and presence in the classroom. Her positive, relaxed, and motivating energy not only inspired me during the course but also influences the way I approach teaching my own classes today, fostering a supportive and engaging environment for my students.
I’m deeply grateful for her passion and dedication, which left a lasting impression on me.
Thank you, Zoya, for this invaluable experience!”
3D Fashion Designer-AR,
Clo3d Trainer/Lecturer
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“In Zoya Laskowski's courses, I was consistently encouraged to think outside the box and visualize my ideas in clever ways....
The skills I gained in InDesign, Photoshop, Premiere, and other Adobe programs provided the perfect foundation for successfully completing my training and building a strong portfolio. From impactful magazine designs to a high-quality fashion film, the results I achieved from Zoya's classes remain a significant source of inspiration, motivating me to continue growing and developing creatively.”
Copy Editor at mytheresa, Germany
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“The Design courses I took with Zoya Laskowski during my Fashion Journalism studies was a pivotal part of my academic and ...
professional growth. It gave me a strong foundation in layout design using Adobe Creative Cloud, with hands-on experience in tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Through creative projects, I learned to think outside the box and develop technical skills that have been incredibly useful during my internships and my PR and Social Media Traineeship.
Today, as a Junior Social Media Manager, I still apply the knowledge I gained from the course to design engaging and visually appealing content. Beyond technical expertise, it also enhanced my creativity and attention to detail, which are essential in my work. The Design courses truly laid the foundation for my career and continues to influence my professional journey.”
Junior Social Media Manager
at nexum.
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“Zoya's teachings have been immensely helpful in my professional career. Whether it's simple graphic design projects for social...
media or complex B2B advertising campaigns, I have been able to apply her knowledge time and again in practice. With my passion for marketing and advertising, I have worked for many well-known brands and various industries, and Zoya's approaches continue to guide me to this day. I am truly grateful that I had the opportunity to learn from her, and her input still has a significant influence on my work.”
Campaign Executive,
Germany
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“The Communication Design and CAD/EDV courses with Zoya not only taught me the basics of programs like Adobe InDesign and Illustrator...
during my studies but also prepared me for the demands of professional life. The practice-oriented content and Zoya’s structured approach helped me develop a deep understanding of these tools, which I now apply in my professional work—whether in designing complex layouts or creative design projects.”
Brand Designer & Influencer Manager
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“During my time in Zoya’s class, I was introduced to the basics of Adobe Creative Suite. Her course was structured in a way that allowed...
us to first become familiar with the tools and functions of these programs before exploring them independently. Zoya was always available to answer questions and provide guidance whenever we faced challenges, which made the learning process incredibly supportive. These programs are essential for fashion designers and the industry as a whole, and I am truly grateful for the solid foundation I gained through Zoya’s course.”
Fashion & costume designer, NYC
Anonymous Survey Feedback:
A Selection of Student Testimonials from Germany and the United States (2015–Present)
The following examples are comments from my classes, spanning Spring 2015 to Spring 2022 at the Fashion Design Institute in Düsseldorf, Germany, and Fall 2023 to Fall 2024 at Oklahoma City Community College in Oklahoma City, United States. These comments were collected through anonymous surveys.
Being introduced to Figma and being taught how to use it was the most valuable aspect for me. I've never heard of Figma or used it before, so it was nice learning how to use it and experimenting with different features of the software. I also appreciated how you were always around to help us and made sure we were able to use the features correctly. Thank you so much for that and for being so nice as well. Your constructive feedback was also valuable because it helped me make changes in my designs for the better.
Class of Publication Design, DMD-2323, 24SP
In the very short time I have spent this school year learning graphic design I believe I have come very far. I did not know any graphic design principles before this year all my previous hours have been focused on photography. I am very grateful to you Zoya and hope I can glean more knowledge from you next semester.
Class of Portfolio Prep & Presentation, DMD-2803, 24SP
The students made a magazine twice a year. Ms. Laskowski always supported us in homeschooling, especially during the Corona period. We learned how to create a magazine step by step. Insert images, try out fonts, and how to create our own designs, Logos and Films. We learned how make a movie and how to cut it. The we used special effects. Of course, we also ventured into the subject of retouching.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Typography and Layout, SP21
Our exhibition on the Königsallee in Dusseldorf was one of the best experiences. We worked with Adobe Aero and created interactive experiences or exhibitions with augmented reality.That wasn‘t easy because we were completely in homeschooling. But Ms. Laskowski managed to teach us everything online. She did really great. We got to know the world of augmented reality. At the beginning, for example, we actively designed products and their background, shop windows or stores ourselves; in the app We have learned to create our very own world. And later we moved on to our own projects. Finally, we were able to successfully show our exhibition on the Königsallee.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Immersive Technology, SP20
It was of course important to hand out a good magazine at the end of the semester. We always started dealing with the magazine topics at an early stage. Then we started discussing ideas. This phase in particular was always very important and good. Because that way you could brainstorm again and look at the first ideas with Ms. Laskowski. Then it was time to design the rough layout and little by little more and more details were added. She took time for each person individually to look at the magazine very carefully. She always made good suggestions and helped to implement ideas.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Editorial Design, F18
Mrs. Laskowski is really a wonderful teacher and she was always friendly. She always motivated the students to keep going. If something didn‘t go so well, she helped you further. She has great time management and she was also there for us outside of class time. Especially during the times of homeschooling, she has proven that she can explain difficult topics perfectly. Even under difficult conditions. She taught heavy subjects slowly and clearly; So you can always keep up. Especially in the final semester she was an incredible support.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Typography and Layout, F19
She was a great teacher these past two years and taught me a lot about the Adobe programs and how to use them for my personal good. I am so happy for her to have this great opportunity. I will miss you Zoya.
Class of CAD, Section: Adobe Software, 20SP
I would say this is very close to real world experience and I could imagine myself doing this same concept but for an actual client. It was definitely challenging, but I feel more prepared now for a future career in the design field.
Class of Publication Design, DMD-2323, 24SP
The instructor was very effective in delivering the goals of the class and the assignments. There was a learning curve with using Figma but I did eventually learn to operate the program.
Class of Publication Design, DMD-2323, 24SP
Being able to see my design go from a file to a object in the real world and that process.
Class of Graphic Design, DMD-1513, 24SP
The course was fun.We were preparing magazines for each Semester and Zoya always respected our ideas and never tried to change them. She always helped to improve them and make them more detailed.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Typography and Layout, SP20
Mrs Laskowski always encouraged us to be creative and to not think within the borders of what we think is possible. If we had an idea and didn‘t know how to execute it Mrs Laskowski didn‘t only show the student themselves, but also the whole course. That always was a great learning experience
Class of Communication Design, Section: Typography and Layout, SP18
I would rate this course very highly as it showed me a whole new skill set with creating a actual website.
Class of Publication Design, DMD-2323, 24SP
I enjoyed it, generally challenging and I got to learn a program I may not have otherwise that will be beneficial to me. I especially enjoyed that we were able to create a project on our own terms as we will be stuck with this work in the future, as far as using it in a portfolio.
Class of Publication Design, DMD-2323, 24SP
She took small steps so that everyone could follow. Moreover she was very helpful, when you had a question about something. She was a good teacher, I liked her lessons.
Class of Communication Design, Section: design in digital Journalism, F20
Professor Zoya covers the Elements of Design in her lectures, which is helpful for new students or those who need a refresher. Learning what makes a good design and all of the different aspects I didn’t think about before.
Class of Creativity & Design, DMD-1013, 24SP
Since Professor Zoya's class on creativity and design is excellent, I would recommend it to anyone who wants to pursue a career in graphic design.
Class of Creativity & Design, DMD-1013, 24SP
The presentation was the most valuable since I got first hand experience with presenting a public work of art to a large audience
Class of Creativity & Design, DMD-1013, 24SP
The course helped me have the experience of working on a project for several weeks. It taught me what I need to leave time for when working on a creative project and when to scrap stuff in a project.
Class of 2D Animation, DMD-1233, 24SP
Through the course I learned the meaning behind logo design and in general how many small details make up in communication design. Through the applications in indesign and Photoshop, I have designed my own logo and now know what is important in photo editing and communication design in general.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Typography and Layout, 19F
It was great! Enjoyed the challenge, and that I was allowed to pursue a big idea.
Class of 2D Animation, DMD-1233, 24SP
I would rate my overall satisfaction as high because I was able to learn a lot about design.
Class of 2D Animation, DMD-1233, 24SP
The aspect of this course I found most valuable was learning the basics of After Effects, presenting project ideas to the class, and working with other classmates/receiving critiques from other classmates.
Class of 2D Animation, DMD-1233, 24SP
I'm satisfied with the content of the class. This class has taught me how to build a website and has been a challenge, but a good challenge. It's brought me out of my comfort zone and I've gotten to make cool projects/designs. I will take what I've learned from this class and keep practicing my graphic design skills.
Class of Publication Design, DMD-2323, 24SP
Learned a lot. Challenging but not cruel in any way. Student centered. Good stuff.
Class of 2D Animation, DMD-1233, 24SP
Challenging at first but very satisfying when you figure out how to solve issues throughout the designs. Yes, the professor is absolutely amazing and she taught us all individually which was also amazing.
Class of 2D Animation, DMD-1233, 24SP
I would recommend this class because a lot of us might not know how to build a website or ever used Figma. I don't think anyone in our class had heard of Figma until now. Design students need this class because I'm sure we will have to make websites or magazines at a future job. We need to know and have the experience of making those to be prepared for future careers in the design field.
Class of Publication Design, DMD-2323, 24SP
Creating a portfolio. Going over interview skills. Creating a resume.
Class of Portfolio Prep & Presentation, DMD-2803, 24SP
Yes. It is an excellent course to prepare yourself for getting a job.
Class of Portfolio Prep & Presentation, DMD-2803, 24SP
I learning how to animate and seeing my work come together.
Class of 2D Animation, DMD-1233, 24SP
Attending Mrs. Laskowski‘s CAD course was a great experience! At first I thought working with technical programs like Adobe InDesign and Photoshop might be quite hard, but Mrs. Laskowski explained everything carefully and she made time for each student. I immediately felt seen and comfortable and truly enjoyed learning each step. Within such a short time period, I already have all the skills necessary to work with these programs, thanks to Mrs. Laskowski.
Class of CAD, Section: Adobe Software, SP19
This course gave me confidence to do more advanced work in this subject and it increased my interest in this field of study. Overall I’m satisfied with the course.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Design Principles, SP18
While working in the projects she always brings the best out of you and she’s extremely good at what she does so I learned so ma many new perspectives and different way of working and viewing every project I worked on.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Immersive Technology, SP20
Everything was clear and detailed. I had fun to work with her in this subject.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Immersive Technology, SP20
It was a nice project course, where we would make project that includes important topics like sustainability in fashion.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Immersive Technology, SP20
It was a great experience to do such a big project as a group, and you gave us a lot of guidance.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Immersive Technology, SP20
At first the website looked a like a lot of work, but mrs. Laskowski explained it very well. She is a good teacher, that shares a lot of her knowledge.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Web design
I loved to design a website, it was really helpful for our future work in the journalism world. In this course we got a lot of input, but we learned step by step to create our own website, really well.« »She gave us a lot of feedbacks and inspirations.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Web design
It was super interesting, however because of timing and other semester projects, I personally didn‘t have much time to enjoy it at its fully. One of the things that I really appreciate learning has been the Visual Studio Code Programm, I think is one of the most important things that I am taking from Mrs Laskowski‘s class. She has always been present in class, and has always answered any other questions that I had regarding the topic.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Web design
Mrs. Laskowski was always a kind person and teach us the skills really well. Through group work, the group has grown even more together. We helped each other when there were difficulties. We have supported interdisciplinary through the group work.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Web design, SP20
Her ideas are really helpful and she guides you in a very logical and easier way. What makes her a good teacher is her communication, adaptability and patience and most importantly promoting a love of learning for her subject.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Web design, SP20
Although this topic can be very dry and chewy sometimes, Mrs Laskowski always made sure everybody was up to speed and understood what she was teaching. In the end we all knew how to do it and were very happy about it.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Design Principles, F17
Definitely awakened my interest in graphic design, and led me to explore a little more the different programs that are in adobe. As said, the course has brought me a lot in terms of digital design, and all the technical tool for me to do my own magazine.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Brand Design, F17
She taught us what kind of lookbook/logo is appropriate and how to design them while still maintaining our individual essence.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Brand Design, SP17
Ms. Laskowski was an excellent lecturer. She helped the students individually and picked them up where they were with their level of knowledge. She was always friendly and motivated. You could ask her about any topic and she also made time outside of school hours.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Brand Design, SP17
She is patient and eager to help. Very clear and concise. Doesn’t waste your time explaining meaningless background information and always lectures with the intent to help you understand the material. Thank you for teaching me so much!
Class of Communication Design, Section: Brand Design, SP18
A very sympathetic and patient teacher! Knowing her craft very well and explaining it very easy to understand! Showing just the right steps to take us where we want to get with our project! I‘m very glad that I‘ve learned these tools and can realize my visions now, I‘ve always wanted to learn how to use these programs for private use! :).
Class of Communication Design, Section: Brand Design, SP18
When I first attended Mrs. Laskwoski‘s class, I immediately could sense her very nice and caring personality. She is very well known and cares about her students. She also has a lot of patience, which is great while working with Adobe programs, as they can be quite difficult at times. I loved attending her class and will 100% miss her once she leaves FDI.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Brand Design, SP21
Although it can be hard to work as such a big team on a project, it always worked out with Mrs Laskowski. She kept everything scheduled and organized, but also made sure the creations of the students were well executed and also just good and functioning ideas in general
Class of Communication Design, Section: Immersive Technology, SP20
First she showed us the basics and we had to do it on our own afterwards. If any help was needed, she would come and help us. I liked her teaching method ver y much. We had to create our own logo, booklets, short clips and even animate our own clip.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Brand Design, SP21
Mrs. Laskowski has the easiest way of teaching.The way she explains the methods are very easy to understand. I’ve studied the softwares before however I struggled very with the tools and softwares but Ms Laskowski’s teaching method helped me easily overcome the difficulties.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Editorial Design, SP21
You have been very patient with us and have given us a lot of input.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Editorial Design, SP22
It’s really nice to learn how to put your work in a self made magazine/lookbooks. You learn a lot!
Class of Communication Design, Section: Editorial Design, SP22
We designed lookbooks, magazines and Logos. We also designed our own online website.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Brand Design, SP22
Making design lookbooks and logos is now something I find somewhat easy to navigate because of Mrs. Laskowski‘s sharp tutoring.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Editorial Design, SP21
In the beginning we started with Adobe InDesign, first we started recreating the logos of the brands. Our first take of the first semester with her was to create an digital invitation card. She really developed us.
Class of Communication Design, Section: Editorial Design, SP21
I liked this course very much. I learned a lot about all the Adobe Programs, it will definitely help me for my future work.
Class of CAD, Section: Adobe Software, SP18
The way Ms. Laskowski taught was always ver y beneficial and helpful. She was always accommodating to questions and was a very big help. I have mastered the use of Indesign very well thanks to her.
Class of CAD, Section: Adobe Software, SP18
Very well explained. I could always ask her, when there was any kind of problem. She was really friendly and helpful. We learned many basic skills for many adobe programs and even more. She did the best out of our time.
Class of CAD, Section: Adobe Software, SP18
She is a very friendly and helpful teacher and person. She always wanted to teach us something useful for ourselves, that we can use for our path as a fashion designer. I learned many programs, which I never had heard of before and can use them on a good level now.
Class of CAD, Section: Adobe Software, SP18
I have never known CAD to be as interesting a practical as it was when I studied with Mrs Laskowski as my Lecturer. I learned how to work on many programs with her and I can proudly say I can handle them so well.
Class of CAD, Section: Adobe Software, SP19
She’s the most talented CAD teacher I’ve had. Not just in terms of skills but as a creative person she’s very good. I’m glad I had a chance to learn from her.
Class of CAD, Section: Adobe Software, SP18
CAD class was really useful for me and I really enjoyed it. The Technic which I got is going to be useful even after I graduate this school and I really appreciate it!
