how to get started as a Graphic Designer

If you doodled, loved comic books or made the poster for your school fair as a kid you probably already know you want to be in the graphic arts. A graphic designer creates and arranges two-dimensional visual elements to communicate a message.

Education & Training
Internship

If you are still in high school or college a summer internship at the local paper, marketing firm or printer will expose you to the day to day work of a designer. Search the web for internships but also look around your neighborhood and town. Ask friends and teachers if they know a graphic designer and to introduce you. Working at a computer is essential for a graphic designer today. Just being in the office will show you a lot about a designer’s daily routine.

When you are at your internship ask questions and eagerly volunteer to help out on important projects. Surfing the web all day won’t expose you to anything new.

Associates Degree
An associate's degree in graphic design or art is a good starting point if you want to get started quickly. You’ll learn a lot of technical skills and become marketable as an entry level computer artist within a limited budget. Check if the courses adequately prepare you to transfer to a four-year institution if you decide to pursue more years of education.

Advanced Degrees
A Bachelor's Degree in graphic design is recommended. A good graphic designer has a grasp of art history, communications and business. With 4-6 years of higher education you will have the time to both gain a breadth of knowledge in various areas of study as well as learn and sharpen essential skills specific to being a graphic designer. Look around and compare schools. Your comfort level with the school will be a big factor in your success. Though the admissions process may be daunting remember to evaluate the school as much as they evaluate you. Talk with faculty and alumni:

- Where do alumni work now?
- Where were the faculty educated?
- What is the philosophy of the program?
- Are internships and/or exchange programs available?

What is the admissions process? Start the process of evaluating schools a couple of years before you begin. Share your interest with teachers and friends. They may also have additional input and encouragement.A Master’s Degree will give you the credentials to teach in higher education. It will also give you the time and freedom for exploratory work. Some designers even return to school for a Masters Degree in the midst of running a successful firm.Graphic Designers do not need credentials or a license to practice. Though education is the route most will take some, such as David Carson, are largely self taught.

Continuing Education
Regularly take classes to keep your skills current in the marketplace. A two-hour teleseminar or a two-week intensive class will keep your professional skills from getting stale. Online training is a convienent way to learn software.

Portfolio
A design portfolio is a key requirement for getting a job. Every detail will count from the typography on your resume to the thoughtful organization of the work. Present your portfolio in person whenever possible, talk critically about your work and be informed about the firm or person you are interviewing with. Whether you use a traditional black book or go digital remember you are communicating visually—give a strong impression.

Your First Job
Congratulations. Are you ready to learn more? Once on the job it is essential for young designers to continue to grow. Good project management, interpersonal communication skills and a positive attitude will advance your career as quickly as knowing the latest software. Salaries range between $30,000 and $50,000 for starting designers. Many designers freelance at night and on weekends to expand their portfolio and earn extra cash.

By: Mary Beth & Paul Trautwein / http://graphicdesign.about.com/