I identify more as a generalist graphic designer than a specialist. I have working knowledge of some of the Adobe suite programs. Am I an expert in any one program? No, but I know enough to get the job done.
My passion for design started since when I was a little girl. I initially was into fashion and interior design so I would always sketch clothing articles and design any open space I had seen that caught my attention. It wasn’t until a degree later (first Bachelor’s degree is in Forensic Science) that I had realized that I really enjoyed making flyers and posters (helped the marketing team in my church) and I can actually pursue a field that equips me with the necessary tools to become a great Graphic Designer.
This brings me to why I identify and prefer to stick with being a generalist graphic designer. I like to dabble in a little bit of everything. This road provides me with the freedom I seek to venture out in different avenues – whether its logo design, poster/flyer design etc. It makes it more interesting. Knowing myself, I would get bored and things would become mundane if I had to specialize in just one area. I like the flexibility that a generalist graphic designer provides.
When I graduate from college, I intend on looking for work at 1 of 3 places – generalist studio, advertising agency or corporate communication (in-house). I would also still like to do freelancing on the side. My ultimate goal is to branch off into my own business full-time. Eventually I’d like to hire some staff once the workload becomes too much to juggle single-handedly. I know the journey is not going to be easy but my cousin, who started off where I was, now has his own graphic design business and just recently snagged a multi-million-dollar contract. If he can do it, and the countless others like him, why not I?
I am excited to see what the future holds and I will not stop until I become great at what I do. As of now, I know that venturing down the road of a generalist graphic designer is where I want to go and I will pursue it relentlessly until my aspirations are achieved.
