The yearbook committee at KIMEP University is creating a publication for the 2025 graduates that showcases student life and achievements. This year’s theme is a personal diary, filled up by feedback from students and teachers. The little-known team focuses on combining creativity and rigor to make the yearbook unique.
“To manage the entire process, you need to know what each position does,” said Kamila Arynkazy, who previously worked as a photographer’s assistant. Only two people from last year’s committee remain, and the late delivery of yearbooks caused dissatisfaction among students. The new committee is determined to change their approach to avoid similar issues in the future.
“It’s not just a student organization, it’s something more, we’re like a family,” said Arynkazy, highlighting the team spirit and openness. This is the first year that the casting for the team was held.
“It’s easy to work with graduates; they are usually very polite,” said photographer Safiyat Zhunussova. However, she is also responsible for photo editing and said that it takes 15 to 30 minutes to edit each picture, even considering her experience.
“Dr. Scott Burgess provided the opportunity to use mediaclub equipment,” she said. At the same time, there is still little equipment and it is poorly suited for work.
“Photographing graduates? I didn’t know we had such a thing,” Zhunussova said. Many people don’t know about the existence of the Yearbook committee.
“The theme of this yearbook is like a personal diary,” said content manager Dilnaz Zhenissova, who is developing the concept based on feedback from students and teachers through online surveys.
“Many don’t want this yearbook to be just about academics,” she said. This reflects the team’s goal to create a brighter and more informal product that showcases both academic achievements and student life, allowing graduates to see themselves in a more personal light.
“We get so much experience here,” said Arynkazy, emphasizing the project’s importance for the participants’ future careers. This experience aids professional growth and strengthens team bonds.
“Like in the New York Times,” said designer Yasmin Saulebay about the cover design, which may be styled similarly. She aims to balance a serious and playful style to reflect the spirit of the times and the individuality of the graduates.
“More than half of the yearbook committee are journalists; everything we do is related to our profession,” said Saulebay. This blend of professionalism and creativity makes the project unique.
“Three hundred people trust us,” said Arynkazy, emphasizing their responsibility. Key dates like the draft on April 11 and the final version on April 28, the team is confidently moving towards its goal.
Frequently asked questions:
How much does an album cost? It’s free
Is there a specific dress code/what to wear for the photo shoot? All graduates are photographed in gowns.
Can I refuse the album? YES
Can I not have my photo taken but still get the album? Yes, we can insert your name with a quote
Can I do without the quote? YES
The Yearbook team encourages graduates to sign up for a photo shoot at #405 VB
Schedule for FEBRUARY:
Monday 12:30-15:00
Saturday 15:00-19:00 by email yearbook@kimep.kz , as well as subscribe to an Instagram account with information – kimepyearbook.