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What is the best way to determine if the major you picked is best for you?

I've known for a very long time that going into the art field is what I wanted to do. But it seems that everytime I think about pursuing my dream of graphic design, I get very nervous that I won't be able to get a job or I will be struggling as my career evolves and I will have to switch careers. The best way to put this question is, is how to know you won't want to change your career after putting so much money into schooling? Thank you! #art #communications #graphic-design #arts #graphics

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Hank’s Answer

You'll know in about fifteen or twenty years. Maybe.

Follow your passion. If life were a guarantee, all insurance companies would be bankrupt.

Hank recommends the following next steps:

Start your portfolio immediately and know it will be constantly evolving.
Work on what your "brand" might be -- hard to convince someone you can do anything and everything (even if you can).
Practice "job-getting" skills. Doesn't matter how fast you run if you can't locate the starting line.
Embrace being nervous -- it will give you the necessary "edge."
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Samady’s Answer

There will be jobs, just try to get an internship or do some work with your school. Get as much experience as you can.
I've actually went into game art hoping to make video games, but the industry has so much competition. I'm actually now an graphic artist. Who would of known. Who knows maybe one day I'll get into the gaming industry. The art field is always changing, new skills and programs will obsolete. But for now I'm still working with art. It took me about year to get into, and with experience I'm sure I'll be on my way. But if your heart set on it, don't give yourself any excuses. Just keep pushing. That is what I'm doing slowly but surely, you'll be where you want to be.
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Cuong’s Answer

Well, being a graphic designer, there are always jobs for graphic designers around the world. We use ads, posters, banners, and pretty much anything paper-related. It depends where do you want to work at, if that's what you worrying about. If you want to live in a city and have a designer job, best thing for someone who doesn't have any work experience during school, internships and assistant jobs are the assistance to getting a real job.


It is scary that after graduating that you are dreading over job hunting, everyone is always nervous and scare of job hunting and interviews.


But if you worked prior before applying, it helps a lot even if you're dead nervous.

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Zaara’s Answer

Hi :)


The best way would be to check in with yourself and see if in your heart of hearts how you feel about becoming a designer. Are you totally into it? If that is the case then go ahead and pursue your dream. Go for it with all your might. Such passion will bring its rewards and you will be happy with your job every day. no matter what life brings you will be ok. Even if you will have to make the change what you have learnt will serve you in your next adventure. Education will shape who you are and is never lost in my opinion.

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T.J.’s Answer

Hello Mackenzie!

The best way to determine if a major is the best fit is to give yourself a chance to explore it.

Give the coursework 𝒂 𝒕𝒓𝒚. You have to give yourself a chance to explore it. Otherwise, you'll never know if you like it.

As you enter your freshman year, you'll take intro classes. Usually, these classes last for 12-16 weeks (depending on the school). Those weeks will help you see if:

- You enjoy the assignments/projects. If your homework teaches you relevant skills in graphic design, you'll likely like it more.

- You enjoy your professors. Believe it or not, the quality of your professor can make or break what you get out of a course. Having too many good or bad professors in your major can also determine whether you like it or not as well.

- You enjoy the department itself. Being around driven, focused, friendly peers can help you feel a sense of belonging in your major.

- You feel connected to the industry at large. If your major provides many internships (or applied learning experiences) related to graphic design, that can be a sign that your school cares about you succeeding as a designer.


Now, if you feel very concerned about the cost of college...

A good rule of thumb is if you want to pursue an education but are scared about paying so much, attend either a community college or a general four-year-institution.

Community college is more affordable than going to a four-year-institution (especially in NYC as you mentioned in another answer).
General public colleges will be less specialized in commercial arts than an art school. Yet, if you decide to switch your major, you can do that very easily.

Hopefully this helps you! Wishing you well as you become a graphic designer :)
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