GET INVOLVED
Take advantage of the resources around you - make the most of workshops and events, nosy around the BSOA Art Shop, and find out which design books are available in the library. Start making industry connections through the Graphic Design Society and take advantage of being in a room with other people who are passionate about design. Learn as much as you can from your lecturers; ask for feedback and advice and take it on board. Finally, get to know your peers better: even if you feel that your year group isn’t particularly close-knit, it’s never too late to make an effort, and you could be making life-long industry connections.
SHOW UP
You may think that you have already found your core interests within graphic design but there’s so much more to be gained when you get out of your own creative bubble and find some fresh perspective. Be present and open minded during every class, drop-in feedback session, guest lecture, or standard day in the studio. Don’t wait for feedback to be offered; chat about your projects with your lecturers and peers. Now is the perfect time to grow in self-confidence and practice talking about your work and the reasons behind your creative choices, as well as to get used to taking on criticism.
YOUR PEERS AREN’T YOUR COMPETITION
For the sake of your self-esteem, friendships and mental health, learn not to pit yourself against your peers. Everyone has their own style, strengths, and processes, so comparison is pointless and self-deprecating. Have confidence in your own work regardless of those around you and learn to celebrate the success of others. It’s not about whose work is better, it’s about what you can learn from each other. Focus on your own strengths and weaknesses. What’s more, your peers will become your future industry connections, colleagues, and inspiration. Considering that the graphic design industry in Belfast is a fairly small world, a competitive mindset will only sour working relationships throughout your career.
BALANCE PORTFOLIO, GRADES & ATTITUDE
Yes, a good grade matters - it demonstrates a solid work ethic, but employers will be more interested in the evidence: your portfolio. Once you graduate, projects with full creative freedom will be few and far between as you get used to working with clients to a brief, so just go for it and show off your abilities and creative thinking while you have the absolute freedom to do so. With all that in mind, keep a good head on your shoulders and be willing to learn and you’ll make a good impression in the creative industry.
