Later this afternoon, the Portfolio Center will be welcoming back five recent graduates: Michael Alexander – Film and Video (2013), Kendra DeKuiper – Fashion Design (2012), Gigg Hemwattakit – Graphic Design (2010), Mark Leja – Film and Video (2013) and Hannah Rebernick – Graphic Design (2013).
They will be speaking as a panel about things they’ve learned about the job search since being out in the world after graduation from 4-5 PM in 623 S. Wabash, Room 311.
However, we were able to get a few tips in writing from them which we have included below. Enjoy!
From Michael…
- Create a professional web presence and business cards.
- Check freelance sites and job postings daily.
- Attend industry night and other events with people who have what you want and put yourself out there despite being uncomfortable.
From Kendra…
- Don’t think too narrowly. There are a lot of great jobs out there. All the jobs I have worked since finishing school had been design related, just not always fashion.
- Make as many connections as you can with fellow artists, designers, or others in your concentration. Those connections could be so helpful after school or down the road.
- Don’t get discouraged on your search. It takes time to work up to your dream job and that’s okay.
From Gigg…
- Do lots of research about companies that you want to work for.
- Participate to your design community.
- Be nice to everyone!
From Mark…
- Utilize the Internet to find job opportunities.
- No job is beneath you.
- Build a large group of Producer and Director contacts, and Production Manager and Coordinators. They are the ones who hire.
From Hannah…
- Treat (the job search) like a job, it takes lot of time to do a good job with applications and interviews, if you’re not treating it seriously and putting the time into writing a personalized cover letter, then what’s the point?
- Have realistic expectations. I got a little crushed when my first interview at an upscale studio didn’t turn into a full time offer before I even graduated, but that wasn’t realistic, you need a solid first job, you can always move up from there.
Wise words from some folks out there doing it!
