Career Project
By: Sami Salkic
Graphic Designer
- Description: Graphic designers create designs either by hand or using computer software packages. Graphic designers also create visual concepts, by hand or using computer software, to communicate ideas that inspire or inspire consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for advertisements, brochures, and magazines.
- Daily tasks and responsibilities: Graphic designers usually work in studios where they have drafting tables, computers, and the software necessary to create their designs.
- Education/training needed: A bachelor’s degree in graphic design is required. However, those with a bachelor’s degree in another field may pursue technical training in graphic design to meet most hiring qualifications.
- Preferred job skills: Leadership is one of the designers strongest points when it comes to creating a project. Communication is maybe the most important skill a designer will use throughout their career. Style can be acknowledged as a designer’s signature.
- Job Outlook: Employment of graphic designers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2012 to 2022, slower than the average for all occupations. Graphic designers will continue to play important roles in the marketing of products.
- Salary: The median annual wage for graphic designers was $44,150 in May 2012.
- Work environment: Graphic designers generally work in studios where they have access to drafting tables, computers, and the software necessary to create their designs. Although many graphic designers work independently, those who work for specialized graphic design firms often work as part of a design team. Some designers telecommute. Many graphic designers collaborate with colleagues on projects or work with clients located around the world.
Career Connections
- Career Connections: I really like that I get to work with hundreds of different clients, mostly Fortune 100s and 500s. That being said, the thing I wish I got to do more of was less serious, more playful stuff. I do that in my spare time, though - Derek Atkinson, Designer at Wieden + Kennedy
- I love collaborating with my various clients. It’s so fun to talk about a concept and watch it grow and see everyone’s different ideas morph and coalesce into a final product. I also love doing research on concepts, fonts, colors, etc. I use the internet, the library, bookstores, etc. to pull together ideas. I also keep a folder of graphics, typography, layouts—anything I see that catches my eye—to spark ideas. - Sutton Long, Owner of Sutton Long Graphic Design and Art Director Study in the USA Magazine
High School Preparation
- Related courses: Graphic Design l and Graphic Design ll these class would be good because they teach things about graphic design.
- Extra-curricular Activities: Computer Club and App Developers Club this will help us when it comes to technology.
- Work/Volunteer Experience: Working at a Graphic design firm would be good experience.
- References: Mr. Russotto- Teacher Mrs. Lakdawalla- Teacher Mr. Cartwright- Coach
Post-secondary Plans
- College options: Rhode Island School of Design, Yale University, and Maryland Institute College of Art.
- Training/Certificate Programs:Certification programs are generally available through software product vendors. Certification in graphic design software can demonstrate a level of competence and may provide a job seeker with a competitive advantage.
- Graphic design is its own major.
- Internship/Apprenticeship Opportunities:Working at a office at a graphic design firm
Career Expectations for a Graphic Designer