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Asked
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What can I do to get into the graphic designing field when I've not finished my studies and can't afford to continue at this point in time?
I've got a diploma and certificates in some Adobe Creative suite apps, and I'm currently working at the mine
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6 answers
Garima Lajras
Illustrator, 2D animator, Graphic Designer, UX/UI Designer
105
Answers
Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Garima’s Answer
Hello Kegan,
Good question! First off, you have done such a great thing by asking this question it shows you’re serious about following your passion, and that’s an amazing first step. It’s so inspiring that you are pursuing graphic design, even with everything else going on in your life. The great thing is that you already have a strong foundation with your diploma,certificates, and a willingness to learn. Here’s how you can move forward without needing to jump back into formal studies right away:
1. Build a Portfolio
This is the most important thing to do. Start creating designs that showcase your creativity and skills. Think logos, posters, social media graphics, or even redesigns of existing brands. Platforms like LinkedIn,Behance or Dribbble are perfect for sharing your work with potential clients or employers and making your designs visible.
2. Gain Experience Through Freelancing
Look for freelance gigs on websites like Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer or even LinkedIn they’re beginner-friendly and let you work at your own pace. You can also offer your services to local businesses, friends, or community organizations to build your portfolio and grow your network.
3. Keep Learning and Growing
Take advantage of free or affordable resources to sharpen your skills:
• Canva Design School: Free beginner courses to help you get started.
• YouTube Tutorials: Check out channels like The Futur or Satori Graphics for great design tips.
• Coursera and LinkedIn Learning: Often have free trials or discounts on courses.
4. Network and Share Your Work
Social media is a powerful tool use platforms like LinkedIn, Behance or Dribbble to showcase your designs, share your creative process, and connect with other designers. Joining graphic design communities can also help you stay motivated and get valuable feedback.
5. Transition Gradually
Since you are working, you can start small by taking on easy part time projects to gain experience. As your confidence and portfolio grow, you will be in a great position to transition to full-time graphic design whenever you are ready.
Lastly, I have to say that patience is essential in this field. Graphic design is a creative and competitive field so take it one step at a time, you have already taken a big step by exploring your options, and with your determination and skills, you will go far and get successful. So don’t let the challenges discourage you just keep going.
I hope this helps.
Best of luck!
Good question! First off, you have done such a great thing by asking this question it shows you’re serious about following your passion, and that’s an amazing first step. It’s so inspiring that you are pursuing graphic design, even with everything else going on in your life. The great thing is that you already have a strong foundation with your diploma,certificates, and a willingness to learn. Here’s how you can move forward without needing to jump back into formal studies right away:
1. Build a Portfolio
This is the most important thing to do. Start creating designs that showcase your creativity and skills. Think logos, posters, social media graphics, or even redesigns of existing brands. Platforms like LinkedIn,Behance or Dribbble are perfect for sharing your work with potential clients or employers and making your designs visible.
2. Gain Experience Through Freelancing
Look for freelance gigs on websites like Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer or even LinkedIn they’re beginner-friendly and let you work at your own pace. You can also offer your services to local businesses, friends, or community organizations to build your portfolio and grow your network.
3. Keep Learning and Growing
Take advantage of free or affordable resources to sharpen your skills:
• Canva Design School: Free beginner courses to help you get started.
• YouTube Tutorials: Check out channels like The Futur or Satori Graphics for great design tips.
• Coursera and LinkedIn Learning: Often have free trials or discounts on courses.
4. Network and Share Your Work
Social media is a powerful tool use platforms like LinkedIn, Behance or Dribbble to showcase your designs, share your creative process, and connect with other designers. Joining graphic design communities can also help you stay motivated and get valuable feedback.
5. Transition Gradually
Since you are working, you can start small by taking on easy part time projects to gain experience. As your confidence and portfolio grow, you will be in a great position to transition to full-time graphic design whenever you are ready.
Lastly, I have to say that patience is essential in this field. Graphic design is a creative and competitive field so take it one step at a time, you have already taken a big step by exploring your options, and with your determination and skills, you will go far and get successful. So don’t let the challenges discourage you just keep going.
I hope this helps.
Best of luck!
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Kegan,
It looks like you’re in a strong position to break into the graphic design field, even though you’re not able to continue your studies right now. Your Adobe Creative Suite certifications and diploma already give you a good foundation, and there are ways to build on that without formal education. Here’s how you can get started:
-1. Build Your Portfolio
- Create Projects: Start designing logos, posters, social media graphics, or any kind of work that aligns with the type of clients you’d like to attract. These don’t have to be real projects—create mock designs for brands or redesign existing ones to show off your skills.
- Showcase Your Work: Use platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or even Instagram to display your projects. A solid portfolio speaks louder than a degree in the design world.
2. Learn Through Free or Low-Cost Resources
- YouTube Tutorials: Channels like The Futur, Satori Graphics, and Envato Tuts+ offer great free content to improve your skills.
- Online Platforms: Websites like Canva Design School, Skillshare, and Udemy often have affordable courses that can boost your expertise in specific design areas.
- Design Blogs: Follow blogs like Creative Bloq, Smashing Magazine, and Awwwards to stay inspired and learn new techniques.
3. Start Freelancing
- Freelance Platforms: Join platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or 99designs to find small freelance gigs. These can help you gain experience and earn money while building your portfolio.
- Social Media Outreach: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to showcase your work and connect with potential clients.
- Local Businesses: Reach out to small businesses in your area (or at the mine!) and offer to create designs for them at a reasonable rate. This could include flyers, branding, or social media content.
4. Network and Collaborate
- Join Design Communities: Participate in online communities like Reddit’s r/graphic_design or Discord servers for designers. Networking with others can open doors to opportunities and collaborations.
- Volunteer Work: Offer to design for non-profits or charities. It’s a great way to gain experience and make connections while contributing to a good cause.
5. Focus on Specialized Skills
- Pick a Niche: Consider specializing in a specific area like logo design, web design, branding, or motion graphics. Specialization can make you stand out to clients or employers.
- Learn Complementary Skills: Expand your skill set by learning tools like Figma for web/UI design or After Effects for motion graphics. These are highly sought-after in the industry.
-6. Keep Improving While Working at the Mine
Even if you’re currently working in a different field, you can still practice and improve your design skills in your spare time:
- Dedicate an hour or two daily to learning and creating designs.
- Look for design challenges (like 36 Days of Type) to push your creativity.
- Listen to podcasts or audiobooks about design while at work to stay inspired (e.g., The Honest Designers Show).
7. Long-Term Goals
- Save for Further Education: If possible, set aside a small portion of your income to fund future studies or advanced certifications.
- Join Online Design Competitions: Websites like DesignCrowd or Crowdspring host competitions where you can gain exposure and experience. Winning designs can also boost your confidence.
Key Advice: Take Small Steps Forward
Graphic design is a field where talent, creativity, and a strong portfolio matter more than formal education. Focus on developing your skills, growing your network, and gaining hands-on experience. Over time, you’ll build the reputation and confidence needed to transition fully into the field.
You’ve already got the drive and a great starting point—keep going, and you’ll make it!
Best wishes!
It looks like you’re in a strong position to break into the graphic design field, even though you’re not able to continue your studies right now. Your Adobe Creative Suite certifications and diploma already give you a good foundation, and there are ways to build on that without formal education. Here’s how you can get started:
-1. Build Your Portfolio
- Create Projects: Start designing logos, posters, social media graphics, or any kind of work that aligns with the type of clients you’d like to attract. These don’t have to be real projects—create mock designs for brands or redesign existing ones to show off your skills.
- Showcase Your Work: Use platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or even Instagram to display your projects. A solid portfolio speaks louder than a degree in the design world.
2. Learn Through Free or Low-Cost Resources
- YouTube Tutorials: Channels like The Futur, Satori Graphics, and Envato Tuts+ offer great free content to improve your skills.
- Online Platforms: Websites like Canva Design School, Skillshare, and Udemy often have affordable courses that can boost your expertise in specific design areas.
- Design Blogs: Follow blogs like Creative Bloq, Smashing Magazine, and Awwwards to stay inspired and learn new techniques.
3. Start Freelancing
- Freelance Platforms: Join platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or 99designs to find small freelance gigs. These can help you gain experience and earn money while building your portfolio.
- Social Media Outreach: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to showcase your work and connect with potential clients.
- Local Businesses: Reach out to small businesses in your area (or at the mine!) and offer to create designs for them at a reasonable rate. This could include flyers, branding, or social media content.
4. Network and Collaborate
- Join Design Communities: Participate in online communities like Reddit’s r/graphic_design or Discord servers for designers. Networking with others can open doors to opportunities and collaborations.
- Volunteer Work: Offer to design for non-profits or charities. It’s a great way to gain experience and make connections while contributing to a good cause.
5. Focus on Specialized Skills
- Pick a Niche: Consider specializing in a specific area like logo design, web design, branding, or motion graphics. Specialization can make you stand out to clients or employers.
- Learn Complementary Skills: Expand your skill set by learning tools like Figma for web/UI design or After Effects for motion graphics. These are highly sought-after in the industry.
-6. Keep Improving While Working at the Mine
Even if you’re currently working in a different field, you can still practice and improve your design skills in your spare time:
- Dedicate an hour or two daily to learning and creating designs.
- Look for design challenges (like 36 Days of Type) to push your creativity.
- Listen to podcasts or audiobooks about design while at work to stay inspired (e.g., The Honest Designers Show).
7. Long-Term Goals
- Save for Further Education: If possible, set aside a small portion of your income to fund future studies or advanced certifications.
- Join Online Design Competitions: Websites like DesignCrowd or Crowdspring host competitions where you can gain exposure and experience. Winning designs can also boost your confidence.
Key Advice: Take Small Steps Forward
Graphic design is a field where talent, creativity, and a strong portfolio matter more than formal education. Focus on developing your skills, growing your network, and gaining hands-on experience. Over time, you’ll build the reputation and confidence needed to transition fully into the field.
You’ve already got the drive and a great starting point—keep going, and you’ll make it!
Best wishes!
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Graphic design is a diverse, creative field that uses visuals to communicate ideas and solve problems. Since it tackles a wide variety of challenges, graphic design can be loosely divided into eight different, but often overlapping fields. At Berkeley College, you'll be exposed to each of these fields as you build the skills to become a successful and impactful designer.
WEB & USER INTERFACE DESIGNERS
Web and UI designers create designs for websites and apps. They need to have a solid grasp of design principles, as well as an understanding of user experience design and basic coding principles. While web and UI designers may not actually do any coding, understanding the capabilities and limitations of the code that powers websites and apps makes them a more valuable part of any design team. If you’re a graphic designer specializing in web design or user interfaces, you might find yourself working on projects like landing pages, marketing websites, app designs, game interfaces, or WordPress sites.
BRAND IDENTITY DESIGNER
Beyond logo design, identity designers also create the entire look and feel of a company’s visual presence. As part of this, they create color palettes, decide on the types of images a company will use, determine the typography, and create other accompanying visual elements. Brand identity designers are responsible for crafting the visual identity of the companies they work for. Because of this, they’re generally responsible for creating brand style and usage guidelines that direct the work of other designers, including marketing designers and web designers.
PACKAGING DESIGNER
Physical products need packaging. Everything from cereal boxes to tags on designer clothing needs to be designed by someone. That’s where packaging designers come in. These types of graphic designers need to have a strong grasp of branding as well as consumer behavioral psychology to create packages that make customers want to make a purchase. They need to be proficient at color theory and typography, as well as any laws or regulations about the information that needs to appear on packaging (such as nutrition information).
LOGO DESIGNER
Logo designers develop visually compelling graphics or symbols to represent a company, product, brand or service. They research the target demographic to gain a strong understanding of what symbols they find appealing and memorable. This designer then chooses distinct colors and shapes that relate to and establish the brand identity of the company or product. Logo designers must also be aware of other designs in the marketplace so they are not copying or recreating a trademarked logo.
Whether you choose to specialize in a particular type of graphic design or become a jack of all trades, you should keep in mind that those who do have a focused specialization can often command higher prices and are typically more in demand for the work that they do. Whatever type of design career you choose, remember to build a compelling design portfolio that reflects the type of projects you want to get hired for.
WEB & USER INTERFACE DESIGNERS
Web and UI designers create designs for websites and apps. They need to have a solid grasp of design principles, as well as an understanding of user experience design and basic coding principles. While web and UI designers may not actually do any coding, understanding the capabilities and limitations of the code that powers websites and apps makes them a more valuable part of any design team. If you’re a graphic designer specializing in web design or user interfaces, you might find yourself working on projects like landing pages, marketing websites, app designs, game interfaces, or WordPress sites.
BRAND IDENTITY DESIGNER
Beyond logo design, identity designers also create the entire look and feel of a company’s visual presence. As part of this, they create color palettes, decide on the types of images a company will use, determine the typography, and create other accompanying visual elements. Brand identity designers are responsible for crafting the visual identity of the companies they work for. Because of this, they’re generally responsible for creating brand style and usage guidelines that direct the work of other designers, including marketing designers and web designers.
PACKAGING DESIGNER
Physical products need packaging. Everything from cereal boxes to tags on designer clothing needs to be designed by someone. That’s where packaging designers come in. These types of graphic designers need to have a strong grasp of branding as well as consumer behavioral psychology to create packages that make customers want to make a purchase. They need to be proficient at color theory and typography, as well as any laws or regulations about the information that needs to appear on packaging (such as nutrition information).
LOGO DESIGNER
Logo designers develop visually compelling graphics or symbols to represent a company, product, brand or service. They research the target demographic to gain a strong understanding of what symbols they find appealing and memorable. This designer then chooses distinct colors and shapes that relate to and establish the brand identity of the company or product. Logo designers must also be aware of other designs in the marketplace so they are not copying or recreating a trademarked logo.
Whether you choose to specialize in a particular type of graphic design or become a jack of all trades, you should keep in mind that those who do have a focused specialization can often command higher prices and are typically more in demand for the work that they do. Whatever type of design career you choose, remember to build a compelling design portfolio that reflects the type of projects you want to get hired for.
Updated
Bryan’s Answer
I know what you're saying. When I first started working in the adult world, they hit me with "experience required" even when it was an entry level job. Here's what I'd suggest-look for jobs where you can be trained while on the job like an internship or apprenticeship. You'll both get something-they'll get the help they need and you'll get the knowledge you seek. Another thought, use your public library. They have lots of resources on-line and in person but, you'll have to put in the work. Graphic design is a highly competitive field.
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Kegan! 🖌️🎨 So, you're looking to break into graphic design, but you're balancing your current work at the mine and can't continue your formal studies right now. No worries, let's explore some creative ways to get you started and build a solid foundation for your graphic design journey!
1. Leverage Your Current Skills 💻
You’ve got diplomas and certificates in Adobe Creative Suite apps—that’s already a huge advantage! Most graphic design work is based on practical skills, so make sure you’re mastering these tools (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.). The more you play around with them, the better you’ll get.
Practice: Take on personal projects like creating logos, posters, or even just experimenting with design techniques you find online.
Create a Portfolio: It doesn’t matter if it’s a little project or a huge one. Put all your best work in an online portfolio to show off your skills. You can use platforms like Behance or Dribbble for free to display your creations.
2. Freelance and Build Experience 💼
One of the best ways to break into graphic design without further education is through freelancing. Even if you’re working at the mine, you can carve out some time after work or on weekends for side gigs.
Platforms to Explore: Try websites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer where you can offer your design services. Even if you're just starting, you can offer affordable services to attract clients and build your reputation.
Local Opportunities: Maybe there are small businesses around your area that need designs for things like flyers, banners, or social media posts. Offer your services to help them out!
3. Take Advantage of Free Online Resources 📚
There’s a treasure trove of free resources online that you can use to keep sharpening your skills without spending a dime. Here's how you can continue learning:
YouTube: Tons of graphic designers post free tutorials on platforms like YouTube. Look up channels dedicated to Adobe tools and graphic design tips. You'll find everything from beginner basics to advanced techniques.
Coursera and edX: While some courses require payment, these platforms also offer free audit options for many graphic design and Adobe-related courses.
Skillshare Free Trials: Skillshare offers a month of free access to many graphic design courses. You can binge-learn during that time!
4. Network with Other Designers 🤝
Networking is key, and it’s great that you’re already thinking about this! Even if you can’t afford formal schooling right now, you can still connect with others in the industry and learn from them.
Social Media: Join design-related groups on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram. There are tons of active communities where designers share tips, feedback, and even job opportunities.
Local Events/Online Meetups: Look out for graphic design events or meetups (they may be virtual too) where you can chat with professionals, get advice, and learn about possible internships or collaboration opportunities.
5. Use Your Mine Experience 💡
Wait—you're working in the mine? Well, you can still use that job to your advantage! You can design materials or branding that could relate to the industry. Maybe some safety signs, infographics, or internal posters. It could be a great way to practice real-world design and build a network in your field.
6. Stay Inspired & Creative 🎨
Even if you’re not in school right now, keep exploring your creative side. Design is all about imagination and a keen eye for detail. Go through design magazines, websites, and social media to get inspired.
Create Daily: Try to design something every day, even if it’s just for practice. Even if you’re sketching with pencil and paper or playing with digital designs, it’ll keep your creativity flowing.
---
Remember, it’s not about the fancy degree but about the skills and experience you build along the way. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and always put your work out there to show what you can do. Who knows, your next big design job might be just around the corner!
Now, get ready to design something awesome—you’ve got this! 🎉✏️
1. Leverage Your Current Skills 💻
You’ve got diplomas and certificates in Adobe Creative Suite apps—that’s already a huge advantage! Most graphic design work is based on practical skills, so make sure you’re mastering these tools (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.). The more you play around with them, the better you’ll get.
Practice: Take on personal projects like creating logos, posters, or even just experimenting with design techniques you find online.
Create a Portfolio: It doesn’t matter if it’s a little project or a huge one. Put all your best work in an online portfolio to show off your skills. You can use platforms like Behance or Dribbble for free to display your creations.
2. Freelance and Build Experience 💼
One of the best ways to break into graphic design without further education is through freelancing. Even if you’re working at the mine, you can carve out some time after work or on weekends for side gigs.
Platforms to Explore: Try websites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer where you can offer your design services. Even if you're just starting, you can offer affordable services to attract clients and build your reputation.
Local Opportunities: Maybe there are small businesses around your area that need designs for things like flyers, banners, or social media posts. Offer your services to help them out!
3. Take Advantage of Free Online Resources 📚
There’s a treasure trove of free resources online that you can use to keep sharpening your skills without spending a dime. Here's how you can continue learning:
YouTube: Tons of graphic designers post free tutorials on platforms like YouTube. Look up channels dedicated to Adobe tools and graphic design tips. You'll find everything from beginner basics to advanced techniques.
Coursera and edX: While some courses require payment, these platforms also offer free audit options for many graphic design and Adobe-related courses.
Skillshare Free Trials: Skillshare offers a month of free access to many graphic design courses. You can binge-learn during that time!
4. Network with Other Designers 🤝
Networking is key, and it’s great that you’re already thinking about this! Even if you can’t afford formal schooling right now, you can still connect with others in the industry and learn from them.
Social Media: Join design-related groups on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram. There are tons of active communities where designers share tips, feedback, and even job opportunities.
Local Events/Online Meetups: Look out for graphic design events or meetups (they may be virtual too) where you can chat with professionals, get advice, and learn about possible internships or collaboration opportunities.
5. Use Your Mine Experience 💡
Wait—you're working in the mine? Well, you can still use that job to your advantage! You can design materials or branding that could relate to the industry. Maybe some safety signs, infographics, or internal posters. It could be a great way to practice real-world design and build a network in your field.
6. Stay Inspired & Creative 🎨
Even if you’re not in school right now, keep exploring your creative side. Design is all about imagination and a keen eye for detail. Go through design magazines, websites, and social media to get inspired.
Create Daily: Try to design something every day, even if it’s just for practice. Even if you’re sketching with pencil and paper or playing with digital designs, it’ll keep your creativity flowing.
---
Remember, it’s not about the fancy degree but about the skills and experience you build along the way. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and always put your work out there to show what you can do. Who knows, your next big design job might be just around the corner!
Now, get ready to design something awesome—you’ve got this! 🎉✏️
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Kegan,
You are actually in a pretty good position. You already have a diploma and some certificates. There is no reason that you can't get to work. You can freelance and you can approach businesses in your area for some work for a little money. Find freelance jobs online (fiverr, upwork). It will take a little while to take off since you need to build a reputation, but you'll need the practice anyway. While you work at the mines, carve out a little time to further your education using online resources, many of them for free, and practice.
If you don't have a LinkedIn profile already, make one. Make it visually compelling as it is the first thing people will see of your skills. If you post thoughtful and professional content occasionally, people will get to know you and you are building your brand. Add another social media platform, maybe Bluesky or Instagram to showcase your work and connect with other creatives. You can write about your struggles and successes as you develop more skills. You could even use YouTube to chronicle your learning path.
Build a portfolio to showcase your work. You can use free sites like Wordpress. Put a link on your LinkedIn and other social media to direct people to your work.
Look for professional societies and what they have to offer (conferences, workshops, contacts). A mentor could make all the difference at this point.
I hope this helps a bit! All the best!
KP
https://www.format.com/magazine/free-online-graphic-design-courses
https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/6-831-user-interface-design-and-implementation-spring-2011/pages/in-class-activities/graphic-design/
https://www.designindaba.com/tags/graphic-design-council-south-africa
https://dribbble.com/places/south-africa
You are actually in a pretty good position. You already have a diploma and some certificates. There is no reason that you can't get to work. You can freelance and you can approach businesses in your area for some work for a little money. Find freelance jobs online (fiverr, upwork). It will take a little while to take off since you need to build a reputation, but you'll need the practice anyway. While you work at the mines, carve out a little time to further your education using online resources, many of them for free, and practice.
If you don't have a LinkedIn profile already, make one. Make it visually compelling as it is the first thing people will see of your skills. If you post thoughtful and professional content occasionally, people will get to know you and you are building your brand. Add another social media platform, maybe Bluesky or Instagram to showcase your work and connect with other creatives. You can write about your struggles and successes as you develop more skills. You could even use YouTube to chronicle your learning path.
Build a portfolio to showcase your work. You can use free sites like Wordpress. Put a link on your LinkedIn and other social media to direct people to your work.
Look for professional societies and what they have to offer (conferences, workshops, contacts). A mentor could make all the difference at this point.
I hope this helps a bit! All the best!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps: