4 answers
Haley
Student
Newport, Oregon
1
Question
Asked
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How Does Someone with a Degree in Visual Communications Build Up their Clientele?
I am looking into applying for a degree in visual communications at a nearby community college this fall. I would like to use this knowledge to become a graphic designer. But what do I do after I graduate?
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4 answers
Joe Lopez
creative director
5
Answers
Alameda, California
Updated
Joe’s Answer
While you are in college inquire of internship possibilities. Real life experience goes a long way. Also, continue building up the quality and variety of your portfolio. Your work is more valuable than your degree or resume. Don't just relegate your portfolio to classes either. Make projects up. Do hypotheticals. But never stop improving and adding to your portfolio. Ever. It should continue growing your entire creative life.
Rhoda C
Graphic Designer
9
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Rhoda’s Answer
Hi Haley,
I'm glad you asked about getting into Graphic Design (GD). There are three main paths in GD: working in-house, with an agency, or as a freelancer. It's often best to start with in-house or agency roles after graduation because many companies don't consider freelance work as valid experience, which is unfortunate. In school you will learn how to do portfolio, however, if you start gather up your artworks, and start putting them together, it would help you a lot in the future. If you want to learn how to make a portfolio, you can search youtube, there are many designers teach to build portfolio. After graduate they usually ask for a website portfolio, but since you are a student, I recommend a print out and a PDF portfolio would be good.
Here's a brief overview of each option:
In-House:
Working in-house means you'll typically be part of a marketing team, collaborating with marketing specialists and possibly other GDs. In smaller companies, you might also create media content. In-house roles often offer less creative freedom due to strict brand guidelines, but they provide a stable work schedule with less overtime. If you prefer structure and working independently, this might be a good fit. The in-house job market is also larger, making it easier to find opportunities.
Agency:
Agencies work on various projects, offering exposure to different products. Some focus on advertising, requiring skills like video editing, web design, and coding. Others create film posters and marketing materials, demanding strong creativity and proficiency in Adobe software. Agencies offer a collaborative environment with knowledgeable colleagues, but projects can require overtime.
Freelance:
Freelancing offers flexibility in your schedule, you will need to be very organize on deadline. You'll also need to handle clients and marketing on your own. Income can vary greatly, and you'll need to actively find clients. You can combine freelancing with an in-house job to gain experience.
**Tips to Get Started:**
Join AIGA:
A well-known art group that offers classes and networking opportunities.
Engage with Adobe:
They provide online lessons and host events with industry speakers.
Look for Internships:
After a year or so in your major, seek internships. Some might be unpaid, but they’re valuable for gaining experience. Companies often require three years of experience for entry-level roles, so internships can bridge that gap. Disney offers internships, but research local options too.
Consult Advisors and Professors: Regularly meet with your advisor and talk to professors. Building these relationships can provide guidance and support during and after college.
Learn Key Tools:
Familiarize yourself with tools like Canva, Figma, CAD, and Rhino. You might also need skills in 3D printing, web design, UX/UI design, photography, and photo/video editing.
Use LinkedIn:
Create a LinkedIn account to explore GD job descriptions in your area and understand the skills required.
Utilize Online Resources:
YouTube is great for learning Adobe skills, and Pinterest can inspire design ideas.
Good luck with your studies!
I'm glad you asked about getting into Graphic Design (GD). There are three main paths in GD: working in-house, with an agency, or as a freelancer. It's often best to start with in-house or agency roles after graduation because many companies don't consider freelance work as valid experience, which is unfortunate. In school you will learn how to do portfolio, however, if you start gather up your artworks, and start putting them together, it would help you a lot in the future. If you want to learn how to make a portfolio, you can search youtube, there are many designers teach to build portfolio. After graduate they usually ask for a website portfolio, but since you are a student, I recommend a print out and a PDF portfolio would be good.
Here's a brief overview of each option:
In-House:
Working in-house means you'll typically be part of a marketing team, collaborating with marketing specialists and possibly other GDs. In smaller companies, you might also create media content. In-house roles often offer less creative freedom due to strict brand guidelines, but they provide a stable work schedule with less overtime. If you prefer structure and working independently, this might be a good fit. The in-house job market is also larger, making it easier to find opportunities.
Agency:
Agencies work on various projects, offering exposure to different products. Some focus on advertising, requiring skills like video editing, web design, and coding. Others create film posters and marketing materials, demanding strong creativity and proficiency in Adobe software. Agencies offer a collaborative environment with knowledgeable colleagues, but projects can require overtime.
Freelance:
Freelancing offers flexibility in your schedule, you will need to be very organize on deadline. You'll also need to handle clients and marketing on your own. Income can vary greatly, and you'll need to actively find clients. You can combine freelancing with an in-house job to gain experience.
**Tips to Get Started:**
Join AIGA:
A well-known art group that offers classes and networking opportunities.
Engage with Adobe:
They provide online lessons and host events with industry speakers.
Look for Internships:
After a year or so in your major, seek internships. Some might be unpaid, but they’re valuable for gaining experience. Companies often require three years of experience for entry-level roles, so internships can bridge that gap. Disney offers internships, but research local options too.
Consult Advisors and Professors: Regularly meet with your advisor and talk to professors. Building these relationships can provide guidance and support during and after college.
Learn Key Tools:
Familiarize yourself with tools like Canva, Figma, CAD, and Rhino. You might also need skills in 3D printing, web design, UX/UI design, photography, and photo/video editing.
Use LinkedIn:
Create a LinkedIn account to explore GD job descriptions in your area and understand the skills required.
Utilize Online Resources:
YouTube is great for learning Adobe skills, and Pinterest can inspire design ideas.
Good luck with your studies!
Gishan Ali
24
Answers
Clifton, New Jersey
Updated
Gishan’s Answer
Hello Haley,
Great question, after you obtain your degree and graduate, you may do many things with Graphic Design. In this sector you may pursue jobs with different companies or something very common in this field freelancing. But I do tell you now, the job market for GD, is very competitive, as many candidates apply for this position. In the meantime what you can do to prepare is, enhance our resume and LinkedIn, if you do not know what LinkedIn I'll explain. LinkedIn is a great platform to network with individuals from your filed or outside, you may connect with fellow peers, professors, or professionals in your desired field. Its like social media but for networking and job hunting. All the best with college admissions and hopefully you'll land that dream nob of yours.
Best,
Gishan
Great question, after you obtain your degree and graduate, you may do many things with Graphic Design. In this sector you may pursue jobs with different companies or something very common in this field freelancing. But I do tell you now, the job market for GD, is very competitive, as many candidates apply for this position. In the meantime what you can do to prepare is, enhance our resume and LinkedIn, if you do not know what LinkedIn I'll explain. LinkedIn is a great platform to network with individuals from your filed or outside, you may connect with fellow peers, professors, or professionals in your desired field. Its like social media but for networking and job hunting. All the best with college admissions and hopefully you'll land that dream nob of yours.
Best,
Gishan
Rhoda C
Graphic Designer
9
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Rhoda’s Answer
I have another idea that I forgot to share. If you can, try to minor or even double major in marketing or business. It could really help you out.
Thank you so much Rhoda! I really appreciate the information!
Haley