AIGA Raleigh is nearing the end of its Student Membership Drive, which lasts through September. Because of the desire to promote the next generation of designers and creatives, much of the recent focus of our chapter has been directed toward preparing students for the work place.

I think that everyone nearing graduation has a certain nervousness about what will meet them on the other side. There are tons of questions swirling around, from what should I put in my portfolio, to how should I prepare for my first interview, to what expectations should I have for my first job. Preparing for the working world can be a daunting task.

As an emerging designer myself, I don’t really feel qualified enough to write about the best practices of preparing for and landing that first job.  Yes, I’ve done both of those things, but my experience is minimal and probably not the best to give advice from.  However, for all of you who are interested, I’ve done some research into the AIGA archives and other relevant websites and compiled a short reading list that might give you answers to some of your frequently asked questions. (see below)

If you are hungry for more I highly recommend getting involved with what AIGA Raleigh has planned for the emerging designers. If you are a student, or even right out of school, I would be taking advantage of some of the programs and events that are in the works to prepare myself for the future. If you are a seasoned designer, and remember the challenges and uncertainties faced at transitioning into the working world, I would highly recommend getting involved to help!

The best way to get involved is to get in touch with one of the Co-Directors of Emerging Designer programming; Kristin Fowler or Jayne Worth.

AIGA: Making A Living:

AIGA: A Word To The Unwise

AIGA: The Wide Wide World Of Graphic Design

AIGA: Portfolio Presenting

AIGA: Ace The Phone Screen

AIGA: Freelancing For Design Firms And Agencies

Ideas On Ideas: Who To Hire

Design Observer: How Do You Solve a Problem Like Design School?

Jessica Hische: The Dark Art Of Pricing

Design Informer: Seven Tips For Your Design Job Interview

Good F***ing Design Advice

Frank Chimero: What Advice Would You Give To A Graphic Design Student?

David Airey: I Wish I’d Known That

Author: David Mitchell
David Mitchell is a graduate of the School of Design at NC State with a Bachelors of Graphic Design. He is currently a graphic designer at the Farrelly Group, a marketing firm on Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh.