Establishing Solid Groundwork for a Web Design Career
In a competitive job market, persistence and a strong portfolio can lead to success, as demonstrated by Shelby Payne, a recent graduate from the AOS in Graphic Design program. After numerous applications, Shelby secured a position as a web designer at Smarter Web, a data-driven design agency in Pensacola, FL, specialising in custom websites that prioritise data for high-ranking results.
Shelby's prior role in marketing provided valuable experience in website maintenance and designing landing pages on WordPress. This experience, combined with her graphic design skills, helped secure her position at Smarter Web. The interview process was relaxed and conversational, allowing the company to tailor the position to fit Shelby's skills and interests.
A typical day for Shelby at Smarter Web involves addressing emails, mocking up pages in AdobeXD or developing websites using WordPress Elementor, conducting keyword research for clients, and working on updates for existing websites. The company also inquired about Shelby's knowledge of SEO during the interview process, an area she initially lacked but has since gained through training and certifications provided by the company.
Shelby's journey into graphic and web design began with exploring various mediums and eventually website creation using platforms like WIX.com for personal art projects. During her program, she took Drawing I, UX/UI Design, Graphic Design I, and Graphic Design II. Professor Andrew Shalat refined her designs and shaped her journey as a designer, while Professor Mike Hamm guided her in UX/UI Design, which elevated her designs.
For those looking to follow in Shelby's footsteps, completing a relevant degree in Graphic Design is crucial. This builds foundational skills in visual communication and design principles. Developing a strong portfolio showcasing design and web-related projects is also essential, as it demonstrates creativity and technical ability. Gaining experience with web design tools and technologies, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Adobe Creative Suite, is also important.
Networking within industry or local creative communities can help discover job opportunities. Tailoring applications to the company's needs, showing how one's skills align with the potential employer’s projects and culture, is also key. Continuously updating skills to match current web design trends and technologies is also important.
Shelby's passion for art and creativity started at a young age and was ignited during a trip to Disney where she participated in an animator studios class. For those interested in degree programs at the institution where Shelby studied, visit the Bachelors Degree or Associate Degree areas and Degree Program Admissions.
- Shelby's success in securing a position as a web designer at Smarter Web demonstrates that a strong portfolio and relevant education, such as a degree in Graphic Design, can play a significant role in a competitive job market, especially when combined with experience in areas like UX/UI Design.
- Engaging in education-and-self-development opportunities, like networking within creative communities, seeking out industry events, and continuously updating skills to match current technology trends can help individuals advance their lifestyle and career in the field of Graphic Design, as Shelby's journey illustrates.
