Graphic Design Career Information
Graphic Design Career Information
Are you ready to start your career in the Graphic Design
industry? Do you possess the creativity, attention to detail,
and technical training required to be successful, but just don't
know where to start? If so, then read on. Obtaining a rewarding
and exciting position in the field of Graphic Design can be
easier then you think. All it takes is getting the right work
experience. And you can do that by focusing your talents in
three basic areas: formal education, quality portfolio, and
on-the-job training.
Formal Education: Graphic designers usually have a bachelor's
degree in art or design. Formal training helps you develop your
talent and skills and provide training in computer software,
which is highly utilized in the visual art arena. And while a
degree in not always required for all entry-level positions, a
formal education helps to balance your creative and artistic
side.
Quality Portfolio Before you can obtain a job in the field of
Graphic Design, you will need a portfolio. A portfolio is a
collection of your best work and helps demonstrate your skills
to clients or potential employers. A portfolio may include hand
drawings, computer images, photos, and print samples. You can
collect samples from your art and design courses, save letters
of recommendations from teachers and employers, etc. Let your
portfolio speak for itself. A picture is worth a thousand words.
On-The-Job Training As a beginning designer, you will most
likely receive on-the-job training. If you have the option,
participating in an internship or practicum program while in
college is an excellent way to prepare yourself for future work
experience and job possibilities. An internship helps build your
skills, demonstrate your talents, and make future job contacts.
Getting Graphic Design Experience
Like most individuals, once you've completed your technical
education and training, landing the perfect job isn't always as
easy as you might expect. In order to get the most out of your
college or technical school training, you should seriously
consider enrolling in a Graphic Design practicum. In a typical
practicum, you will gain experience in the graphic design field
by working for a company that is directly involved in the
industry. You will gain work experience and additional training
in your specific area of interest.
Additionally, you will receive college credits towards your
graduation requirements.
Why A Practicum? Usually, by the time you enroll in a Graphic
Design practicum, you know fairly specifically which area of
graphic design you wish to work in. However, there are many
times that students are still undecided. A Graphic Design
practicum will allow you to work in a particular area and "test
the waters" before you go out and apply for an actual paid
position. As such, this type of experience is practically
unmatched as an educational tool since you can dabble in a
number of areas within the field and find exactly what fits your
talents and desires firsthand.