Today I participated in the Wisconsin Student Portfolio Review (WISSPR) at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD).
It's part of a weekend-long program that connects college junior and senior design students with professionals in the creative field. MIAD co-hosts the event along with The Eisner American Museum of Art and Design.
Although there were many students who participated in the program, as a reviewer, I met with only 4 during the afternoon review session. Here are my observations from the 4 designers I reviewed:
1. The students were well-prepared. They were ready to explain each piece in their portfolio in terms of how and why it was created and the purpose behind it. I was impressed by their pre-layout prep and attention to detail.
2. They were also focused on how they were going to get a design gig after finishing school. Which was important to me. A portfolio is one thing. Company profiling and interview savvy are just as critical.
3. There were no egos. Each student was open to any and all suggestions. They viewed this as an opportunity to absorb all feedback. When I made suggestions for improvement they did not defend what they did, the tactfully explained what they were attempting.
4. Each of them were super polite. Every time I complimented, they thanked. Every time.
5. Each of them were really talented designers.
6. For me, one stood out from the crowd because of her real-world experience and business smarts. She had in her portfolio a business concept she is developing that I think has a real chance to be big! I hope I can share the idea with you soon.
Overall it was a rewarding experience for me. It's inspiring to see the optimism, energy and talent these students have. Congrats to MIAD and The Eisner Museum for putting together such a valuable, beneficial program.
Spreenkler Blog Author: Steve Glynn
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