With a tough economy and plenty of competition, design students can (and should) start early to set themselves apart and be prepared for the world that awaits after graduation. Many of my students on the first day of class look a little perplexed by the fact that their professor is well…young. I like to think that this motivates them to make an impact themselves, and work hard to peruse their dreams and goals. I realize it’s not easy to be a good college student, but here’s a few things I did, and suggest that other design students do, and get started early (you know, before senior year).
1. Look for work or job opportunities…just for experience.
Let’s face it, not all internships and jobs are paid for college students, but the experience really is beneficial. I was fortunate enough to get to work for my university on some fun design projects because I made connections and pursued them enthusiastically.
2. Go beyond what is covered in the classroom.
Take ideas from class and run with them, especially if it was a topic that was particularly interesting to you. Look up more information, do an extra little project to experiment with tool options, etc.
3. Find a mentor.
Undoubtedly, there will be some faculty member that truly inspires you to do great things with design. They will support you, critique you, and push you to be the absolute best you can be. This is a good person to talk with about your future options and plans. For me, I didn’t meet this professor until my senior year. She challenged me creatively and conceptually to really grow like no one else had pushed me. My relationship with her led to my graduate education and current teaching.
4. Network like crazy.
There are a lot of smart people wandering around your college campus every day (and they know lots of other smart people). Whether it is your course professors, or faculty and students you meet at events, make an effort to talk with them, develop a relationship, and stay in touch. You never know when their knowledge or connections may be able to help you down the road.
5. Redo projects. Do a good job and hang onto the design process.
By the end of your education, you’re going to need a strong portfolio of your work if you intend to scoop up a job. Do yourself a favor and improve projects as you go along, especially if they show potential to be a design sample. Hold onto all of your notes, sketches, inspiration, and rough drafts to showcase your process to employers too. They love (and sometimes require) to see how you think.
6. Make time for other hobbies like drawing, painting, or photography.
It’s easy to get caught up staring into the Mac monitor, but a little time away from the computer doing other artistic exercises keeps you observant, creative, relaxed, and applying your design skills in other ways. Pay attention to details, shadows, and composition.
7. Be inspired! Take advantage of student discounts at museums or in groups such as AIGA.
Almost all museums and design groups have student rates for admission and membership. Plan a day trip to NYC and make a few stops. It’s a great way to soak up inspiration, be exposed to great designers, and gives you a little time away from the computer.
8. Really LEARN the software.
No, really…learn it. Don’t expect anyone to hold your hand and walk through everything step by step. To really learn the software means that you don’t just go through a few tutorials once and forget about it; you practice the tools fairly regularly and build upon your capabilities. The more you are able to do, the more appealing you will be to the workforce, and the more efficient you will be as a designer (time is money).
Take advantage of all the tools and opportunities you have at your fingertips as a design student. It is never too early to start, and I promise you will not regret making the effort. To this day, I do most of the tips that I mentioned and couldn’t imagine living any other way.
