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How do you get started in the field of Graphic Design?
Hello! I am currently studying Mathematics with a minor in Graphic Design. I have been applying to internships all around, including for Graphic Design! How does one stand out for an internship?
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4 answers
Updated
Waiswa’s Answer
Hi Taylor,
If you have a unique blend of Mathematics and Graphic Design, you can use that to your advantage when applying for roles. Here are some strategies to make your application stand out.
1. Showcase Your Unique Skillset: Highlight how your math background enhances your design abilities, emphasizing projects that combine both fields.
2. Build a Strong Portfolio: Focus on presenting your best work in various formats with explanations of each piece's problem, solution, and impact.
3. Customize Each Application: Tailor your resume and cover letter to each role, mentioning specific elements that excite you about the company.
4. Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Show your skills in Adobe Suite and other design tools, as well as coding experience relevant to design.
5. Network and Get Referrals: Connect with current interns and employees on LinkedIn and attend design events to expand your network.
6. Ace the Interview: Prepare for potential design challenges and be ready to discuss your creative process.
You can effectively highlight your unique skills and improve your chances in the field of Graphic Design.
Hope this helps!
If you have a unique blend of Mathematics and Graphic Design, you can use that to your advantage when applying for roles. Here are some strategies to make your application stand out.
1. Showcase Your Unique Skillset: Highlight how your math background enhances your design abilities, emphasizing projects that combine both fields.
2. Build a Strong Portfolio: Focus on presenting your best work in various formats with explanations of each piece's problem, solution, and impact.
3. Customize Each Application: Tailor your resume and cover letter to each role, mentioning specific elements that excite you about the company.
4. Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Show your skills in Adobe Suite and other design tools, as well as coding experience relevant to design.
5. Network and Get Referrals: Connect with current interns and employees on LinkedIn and attend design events to expand your network.
6. Ace the Interview: Prepare for potential design challenges and be ready to discuss your creative process.
You can effectively highlight your unique skills and improve your chances in the field of Graphic Design.
Hope this helps!
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Taylor,
Have you got any work samples? How are you applying for internships--are you responding to ads, are others giving you referrals, or are you networking to find them? You're essentially giving a marketing presentation. What's the "reason to buy?"
What do you have to offer a potential internship site? Think about that and be prepared to talk about it in an interview or application; remember that an internship is a two-way street.
Hope this helps!
Have you got any work samples? How are you applying for internships--are you responding to ads, are others giving you referrals, or are you networking to find them? You're essentially giving a marketing presentation. What's the "reason to buy?"
What do you have to offer a potential internship site? Think about that and be prepared to talk about it in an interview or application; remember that an internship is a two-way street.
Hope this helps!
Updated
Shay’s Answer
For Graphic Design Internships:
Portfolio First:
Your portfolio is the #1 way to impress. Have a mix of projects: branding, UX/UI, posters, motion graphics, etc.
Bonus: Add a case study illustrating your design process from concept to finish.
Highlight Your Math Edge:
Your math education can assist with geometric patterns, data-driven design, or algorithmic art—capitalize on that!
Personalized Applications:
Don't send in form applications. Customize your resume and cover letter to the firm's branding style. Wherever possible, make your resume reflect the firm's aesthetic.
Portfolio First:
Your portfolio is the #1 way to impress. Have a mix of projects: branding, UX/UI, posters, motion graphics, etc.
Bonus: Add a case study illustrating your design process from concept to finish.
Highlight Your Math Edge:
Your math education can assist with geometric patterns, data-driven design, or algorithmic art—capitalize on that!
Personalized Applications:
Don't send in form applications. Customize your resume and cover letter to the firm's branding style. Wherever possible, make your resume reflect the firm's aesthetic.
Updated
Janet’s Answer
Hi Taylor,
First of all congratulations on your initiative to seek out an internship! Knowing yourself well enough to follow your unique interests in math & design is commendable.
Here are some things that made candidates stand out when I reviewed applications for an intern or young designer.
1) A Brand identity
Brand yourself like you would any company. Creating a personal logo, branded letterhead for your cover letter and a portfolio are good ways to show your design thinking. An online portfolio can be a free site such as BeHance or Google Sites, or a student-discounted site on Squarespace. You’re just starting, so a simple portfolio will be understandable now. Be sure to include a URL or QR code to your site on your resume or cover letter.
2)Past work experience
Show how previous jobs have given you skills for your career. Include things like: strong organizational skills, motivation, and quick learner to name a few.
3) Professional organizations
Join art or design clubs at your school or national organizations like AIGA or The One Club. Participate in workshops, portfolio reviews, and networking. Another idea with your math interest is in S.T.E.A.M.-related clubs or organizations.
4) Volunteer or pro-bono work
Volunteering shows initiative! I can’t express enough how valuable volunteer work has been in my career, or when choosing a designer for an internship or open role. Find an organization where you can combine your interests in math and design if possible.
Best of luck in your pursuit of an internship!
First of all congratulations on your initiative to seek out an internship! Knowing yourself well enough to follow your unique interests in math & design is commendable.
Here are some things that made candidates stand out when I reviewed applications for an intern or young designer.
1) A Brand identity
Brand yourself like you would any company. Creating a personal logo, branded letterhead for your cover letter and a portfolio are good ways to show your design thinking. An online portfolio can be a free site such as BeHance or Google Sites, or a student-discounted site on Squarespace. You’re just starting, so a simple portfolio will be understandable now. Be sure to include a URL or QR code to your site on your resume or cover letter.
2)Past work experience
Show how previous jobs have given you skills for your career. Include things like: strong organizational skills, motivation, and quick learner to name a few.
3) Professional organizations
Join art or design clubs at your school or national organizations like AIGA or The One Club. Participate in workshops, portfolio reviews, and networking. Another idea with your math interest is in S.T.E.A.M.-related clubs or organizations.
4) Volunteer or pro-bono work
Volunteering shows initiative! I can’t express enough how valuable volunteer work has been in my career, or when choosing a designer for an internship or open role. Find an organization where you can combine your interests in math and design if possible.
Best of luck in your pursuit of an internship!