I recently graduated from high school, thinking back I realized I missed many good chances to learn some important things while I was there. For example, taking a class that would have taught me something I could apply to my future instead of taking a class just to get an easy “A”. Below are 10 things aspiring designers should take advantage of while in high school, some of which I did my self and others that I wish I would have done.
- Take art classes in high school, they will teach basic art elements which are important to know and will help your designs look better.
- Take programming and web design classes, these classes will teach you html, css, and even some more advanced languages such as java script. You will also learn how to use programs such as dreamweaver, flash, photoshop, and illustrator (there are many essential skills that will make you a better designer).
- Take a business or marketing class to give you a basic understanding of the business side of things, and help you in the future when your looking to start your own business.
- Join a design or art club, here you can interact with other artists and designers and learn from each other.
- Don’t expect to learn everything in school, research and practice on your own time as well, there are many amazing tutorials and other resources online that can help you learn important things that you might not learn in school.
- Offer to re-design your schools website and posters for school events in exchange for some community service hours.
- Offer to design something such as a website and business cards for your parents and friends.
- Keep copies of the work you do and start building your portfolio.
- Create a personal website or a blog, maintaining your own website or blog will help you to keep your programming and coding skills sharp, keep you up to date with current trends, and you will learn many new things.
- Look for colleges that offer good design courses. Design because you enjoy doing it (Five Signs You Should Not Major in Graphic Design).
Do you have a good tip or something you think you should have taken advantage of in high school that could of helped you later on?
Do you have a good tip or something you think you should have taken advantage of in high school that could of helped you later on?
Yes, Vocational School! Throughout my 4 years of high school I had Art classes. I also was in the Yearbook staff. All 4 years my mind was set to Fashion Studies (Fashion Design). I started at Montclair State University Undeclared (One of the 1st colleges that accepted me). To make a long story short, I wasn’t able to finish MSU. I went to Beauty School (8month course), and got my Cosmetologist/Hairstylist License. Worked in Hair, Make-up, Nails/Nail art, Waxing, Photo Shoots, and Managed a Salon. After 13 years went back to College (Gibbs College) for a Certificate in Visual Communications~Graphic Design/Animation (graduated in 2001).
Now, while taking care of an unfortunate back ailment… I’m trying to keep up with my art/design, software (programs), and photography.
SO A NOTE FOR ANYONE WHO READS THIS…AND THAT IS STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL. As an ARTIST, take advantage of everything your HS offers, and IF YOU think something will benefit you, but your Counselor doesn’t…GO FOR IT ANYWAY!! PUT YOUR FOOT DOWN. IT’S YOUR LIFE, and YOUR FUTURE.
Oh on Twitter, I’m ‘Just Is’ with username @TypeRtist.
I think I got this from a RT’s, or I was looking at my follow list to see who to follow. First I read profiles, and information that interest me.
Thank you for your comment and for the RT
Great post. I wrote something very similar when I graduated college. 5 Tips for Design Students. Keep up the good work.
I read your post and it was very helpful, I will keep those tips in mind as I am still in college.
Damn. all of these i’ve done… just not till college. But still, ALL VERY USEFUL!