Creating Your Career in Art and Design

The best thing you can do for your future career in art and design is to start looking at your different options as early as possible. An important thing to consider is what kind of career resources and industry connections they have for their students. This is the key to finding the job of your dreams!

Even before classes begin, visit your school’s Career Resources website if only to look around. You might be surprised at how helpful it can already be for you! On the Academy of Art University’s Career Resources website, there are Tools for Job Search Success that give tips on writing a resume and cover letter, preparing for an interview, networking and more. You can also access a free online job board, exclusive to Academy of Art University students. Not planning on taking classes this summer? Find a summer internship and get a head start on your career!

While browsing your school’s Career Resources website, take note of any career or industry fairs or events coming up. Every semester, professional artists, designers, alumni and company recruiters visit Academy of Art University to present individual work or company projects. Students see first-hand what’s in the production pipeline, hear what companies look for when hiring and have the opportunity to ask key questions about current projects and hiring policies. Making these networking connections as soon as possible will prove beneficial in the long run. You might even meet your future employer!

Take note of other industry networking opportunities on campus such as exhibits or lectures. Academy of Art University holds an Annual Spring Show where top professionals in photography, graphic design, illustration, advertising, media, animation, special effects, film, transportation design, architecture design, fashion, fine art, interior design, and product and toy design fly in to tour the exhibits. Portfolio reviews, recruiting sessions and industry interviews conducted throughout the day allow recent graduates to meet one-on-one with recruiters, agents and hiring executives.

The most important asset to finding the ideal job is a strong and diverse portfolio. A well-developed portfolio is crucial for getting hired at the top firms and companies. Schools whose programs emphasize portfolio building, such as Academy of Art University, prepare their students to take on the professional world and find the best jobs out there.

Your career in art and design starts before you graduate. By taking advantage of the career and industry resources your school offers, you will be ahead of the game and firms will be begging to hire you.