GET TO KNOW ME & ON THE DESIGN TRACK!

Hello and welcome to On The Design Track! This blog is dedicated to those interested in entering the creative world of graphic design. My name is Kiley, and my goal is to help you get on track to succeed in this ever-changing industry. I’m currently a senior in college, majoring in Graphic and Interactive Design. Although I'm still a student, I have done multiple internships and held jobs within the field. I have been fortunate enough to have these opportunities and to be able to hone my skills both inside and outside of the classroom for several years.

MY CREATIVE JOURNEY

Growing up, drawing was always a hobby of mine. I was always doodling, whether that be on the corners of notes in class or in my free time, you’d most likely have seen me with a pencil and paper. It was my outlet and something where I could see myself grow and improve. As I got older and explored more artistic mediums, my passions grew even more. When I discovered digital art, I was fascinated by the capabilities of all these programs and what works became truly possible.

When I entered high school, I saw the many types of art classes that were possible and delved into every medium possible. I also had the opportunity to join my high school’s yearbook program, which helped me learn more of the technical sides of design and helped me truly realize where my passions lay. I was so lucky to be surrounded by creative and passionate people who encouraged me to explore these interests and gave me the space to truly develop the skills I loved. This constant creative spirit I fostered made me realize I thrived when I could innovate and design, and I couldn't let that side of me go.

When I entered college, being around such creative and driven people solidified my passion for design even more. Since entering college, I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of designing social media posts for various organizations across campus, completed multiple internships, and ultimately found who I truly am and who I wanna be within the world of design. That leads us to today, knowing that the people who I surrounded myself with helped to guide me in the right direction, I wanna be that force for someone who is maybe hesitant about whether or not design is truly the field for them.

Although my heart truly knew that design and a creative career were for me, my brain constantly tried to talk myself out of it, but I'm so glad I didn't listen.

If you feel design is something you could delve into, why not? Don't let fear or the unknown hold you back from exploring these passions. Throughout this blog, I will explore some vital elements to getting started, including types of jobs you can get and how to fully build out your portfolio. Whether you're a new designer or experienced within the field, I hope there is something new for you to learn! Are you ready to get On The Design Track?