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Vault Message Board: Career Change

Topic Name: IT Consulting to Graphic Design
Message Name: Not as easy as you think...
Date Posted: 05/29/2002
In Reply To: I was recently laid off from my IT consulting job at a Big 5 firm and I am interested in going into graphic design, as it is a little more creative and something that I might actually enjoy and still be able to make money. However, I have no skills in graphic design. My background in college was Economics and Political Science. My work at the Big 5 firm was in Data Warehousing. I am considering taking a class in Graphic Design, but before I spend the money, I am wondering what the market is like out there? What field can I work in? I think Graphic Design can be used in consulting, magazines and CD cover design. Is this right? Is there anything else? What cities are good markets for graphic design? Any information anyone could shed on this would be incredibly helpful!!
Message: I have a BGD (Bachelor of Graphic Design)and currently work in IT consulting at a big 5. Took the job out of school b/c I was burnt out. Graphic design is a serious profession. You can not learn it by taking a class or two. Many people call themselves graphic designers, but they are little more than someone who has learned the Adobe products-or, they code web pages and think that they are a designer. There is a lot of crap out there. While, someone like myself can come in and learn how to consult (the art of BS), not everyone can go out and create meaningful images with beautiful typography. If you are truly interested in this career change, you should think about going back to school. Be wary of the schools that just teach you the programs. Look at Cal Arts, Cranbrook, NCSU, and the like. Be ready to show a portfolio at an interview, too. And, be ready to work like a dog. consulting has been a cake walk compared to the hours I put in at school.

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