In Appreciation of Design Neophytes: The Young Shall Lead the Old
A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to review design portfolios at our local community college. I’ve participated in this program for the past several years, where local agency staff and freelance creatives fill out forms offering feedback on the quality and creativity of the students’ work. The portfolios vary greatly in design quality and thoughtfulness, but there are usually a few standouts. This year I also had the opportunity to meet some of the students, and our firm even enlisted a recent graduate to help us with some production design. When I talk to the students, it is good for my ego since they manifest a reverence that borders on awe. It’s true that these neophytes have a lot to learn, but they also have a lot to give. They can even serve as role models for the creatives with decades of experience under their belts.
One thing I find refreshing when I meet with these newcomers is their excitement and passion for the design process. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and they remind me of my earlier years when I first started my career. I must confess that after almost 30 years in the advertising business, there are times that I’ve experienced my job as routine. But I don’t want that to happen. I want to keep the creative fires burning and I want to be excited by each and every project our clients entrust to us.
A few years ago we offered Lindsey Mishler (now Lindsey Cousino) an internship over the summer. She was studying graphic design at Grand Valley State University in western Michigan, and she had a strong portfolio for a third-year student. To say that she livened the place up would be an understatement. Her attitude and humor were refreshing, and she definitely raised the energy level around the office. She was up for anything we threw at her, from assisting our designers with their production work to running errands to washing dishes. She loved it all, and it impressed me greatly. So when she graduated the next year, we hired her. She has excelled in the design and production work we have given her, and as importantly, hasn’t lost a bit of her enthusiasm. All of our staff (and our clients) have benefited from her positive energy. And that’s where having youthful designers can pay off in a big way.
Hile Design is a full-service advertising agency based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Subscribe to HileItes
Lindsey Cousino wrote on June 15th, 2009 at 2:02 pm :
Awww…shucks! That summer internship was so helpful to have before my senior year. I was less stressed out by our “tight” deadlines (half a semester!) because I had worked on projects that came in and went out in the same day! I would advise all design students to pursue an internship, even if it’s not required … the real-world experience is something you don’t get in a classroom.