I graduate from SCF with my Associates Degree in Graphic Design next week, so like any new graduate I’ve been asking myself “where do I go from here?” I think about what I learned at school, at my internship at Brand 1111, and from my previous work experience. What do I want out of life, out of my career, what are my goals, my dreams, etc.
My ultimate dream is to have my own freelance business in Graphic/Web Design, but since the economy still isn’t great I do worry if this is a realistic dream. Timing is everything, especially for a new start-up business. So do I go back to the Purchasing/Logistics field till I can build up my savings and then start my own business? Do I just find a position at an already established design studio, take a graphic design job at any company, or do I pair up with another student, or …. the possibilities really are endless and could really drive myself crazy if I think about it too long or hard.
I have considered picking up a part time job anywhere, just to make sure that I have a steady source of income, but then I realize I already have two part-time jobs and a couple of clients with projects just waiting for me to graduate. For now, I’m open to whatever comes my way, if a position happens to fall in my lap I will definitely highly consider taking it, even if it is just a temporary position. In the meantime, I will focus on networking to get my name out there, updating my website, getting my portfolio out there, and seeing what I can do to make contacts and gather new clients.
I will definitely use what I learned at Brand 1111, regardless if it’s for my own company or for another. I would like to thank Melissa and Brittney for the opportunity to intern here at Brand 1111 and for sharing their knowledge with me. I’ve learned a great deal about WordPress and will use that skill for future graphic/web jobs, I’m currently updating my own website with it, and have a potential client that is also interested in it for their website.
In school we discussed things like how to create an Letter of Agreement and contracts, but it wasn’t until I started my internship that I realized how truly important these things are. Brand 1111 also uses time sheets to log hours spent working on various projects, which inspired me to do the same. For my part time jobs, sometimes I work from home, so these time sheets really help me to keep track of my time. I also learned about time management and real world expectations for completing assignments, which will be invaluable information.
I also will be walking away with the knowledge that some clients are angels and others need more coaching. That some assignments will be really cool and others will be boring. The importance of thinking outside the box, yet really listen to the needs and expectations of clients. Doesn’t matter how cool the end result, if it does not work for the client then it’s not a successful project.
This will be my last blog for Brand 1111, so thanks for reading and good luck in everything you do. This is Lee signing off.
The next blog under Intern Insight will be with a different intern, so stay tuned…