Preparing for Graduate School

As a recent graduate, I’ve been thinking at length about what drove me back to school—after six years as a professional design practitioner—for a terminal degree in graphic design. Why did I feel the need to pursue an MFA? What did I think earning this degree would do for me? At times the answer to that question seems absolutely clear: I wanted the support of an academic institution to explore interests that usually warrant the need for an environment that entertains more scholarly and experimental pursuits. But, at other times the answer just isn’t there. Was I simply retreating to the safety of an academic setting—avoiding the so called real world?

For some, the milieu of a university setting is all that is needed to make the leap of undertaking a graduate career. For others, the thought of leaving behind the security of a steady income, stable client work, family, and friends is enough to deter the matriculation.

Having a small group of friends that are contemplating the journey, I thought I would share some advice for others considering the same. The decision isn’t easy, but it’s an important one that can shape the rest of your life and your career.

Read the rest of this entry.

Graphic Designer: Year One

Craig Oldham’s booklet, 12 IN 12, is being republished as a limited edition by D&AD. Originally published as a supplemental piece to a lecture he was giving, the book contains an account of lessons learned by the author during his first year as a professional design practitioner.

I remember my first year well and it was nothing short of a nightmare. Craig’s lessons and advice would have been a welcome comfort. Here are his 12 things (abbreviated):

1. Understand what Graphic Design means to you.
2. Be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses.
3. A portfolio is for life, not just for an interview.
4. Placements matter. Do them.
5. The Design industry is small, everyone knows everybugger else.
6. Participate with other people and share your ideas.
7. Graphic Design is just a job, but being a designer is different.
8. Fall off your bike. If you don’t fail then you are not trying.
9. Life and work exist outside of London.
10. Designing is only, about, 20% of your job.
11. Have a life outside of Design.
12. Work hard and be nice to people.

Changing Gears and Reading

Over the past few weeks I’ve been transitioning from life as a full-time graduate student to life as a once-again full-time design practitioner. Changes like this, at least for me, are never as easy as I would like. However, they are necessary changes that shouldn’t be avoided. I’ve noticed that when I’ve encountered life-changes like this before I’ve turned to reading about the experiences of others for comforting insights. This experience is no different.

I’d like to share a few of the sites I’ve been frequenting that have helped keep me inspired and forward-thinking.

1. Ross Hudgens
2. Seth Godin
3. Jeffrey Tang
4. Merlin Mann
5. Frank Chimero

Each site presents a voyage into intimate self-reflection and sharing without doubt. Read and enjoy.