Junior Year Review
I have attempted this post three times now and I can't seem to break away from writing some mindless cliche drabble about rewards and challenges, so instead I think I'm just going to list off what I've learned this year. I will include the big things, the small things, and the quirky things, just to keep it authentic.
So - to begin - my junior year in the graphic design program and the communication design classes has taught me:
A design at its core is an idea. Visual appeal is important, but ideas win top prize.
Designers are educators, innovators, engineers, artists, politicians, and leaders.
Even the best idea can fail if nobody stands strong behind it.
Sometimes a weak concept can be sold simply by talking it up.
Process is necessary for the benefit of everyone, and it certainly cannot be rushed.
Time is a valuable resource and MUST be managed well to be a successful designer.
Sleep is absolutely necessary in order to be creative.
Typography can make or break a project. It MUST be considered fully.
Folios can be beautiful additions to a page.
Conceptual freedom can be an extremely scary prospect.
Detailed art-direction can bring out the best in a project.
Design inspires change.
Sometimes life is better unscripted.
I'm a terrible baker.
A single folded page holds infinite creative possibilities.
Paper stock adds another dimension to the perception of a printed piece.
Social media can be a powerful job-seeking and networking tool.
A logo is not a brand, but it can be the face of a brand.
Thumbnails matter.
Believing in my ideas helps them grow.
Sometimes stepping away from the computer is the best decision.
Tape things to the wall, and look at them often.
Do not let a project become depressing.
Design is not life, it is only one facet of life.
The design community is a rewarding and valuable entity to be a part of.
Talk about design, and it becomes completely enjoyable.
Don't let Facebook become a distraction.
Strong ideas lead to strong visuals, and tend to grow on their own.
Print two copies. Chances are one will get folded wrong.
Books can be powerful interactive experiences, but should be designed completely.
Carry a sketchbook and let it become a spiritual companion.
Some of the greatest inspiration can be found in the tiniest things.
Think strong and live well. Don't give in to doubt.
I am a powerfully creative individual.
I am growing, learning, and improving every day that I immerse myself in design.
I will continue to grow and I WILL become a designer.
I've exhausted my current list of things learned, even though I'm sure there are thousands more. These classes were a rewarding experience and one that helped me transform from a student interested in getting a design degree to a desginer interested in seeing where this industry will take me. I will remember the experience for a lifetime. Thank you William Culpepper for giving me this. You will be sorely missed.