What to Expect in a Graphic Design Portfolio Review

I have been working in graphic design now for 10 years. In that time I have seen a lot of portfolios and received a lot of feedback on my own work. One of my favorite lines was from someone who had not gone to art school but landed a design job. They graciously commented on my invitation design saying: 

"Your work looks like a carpet." 

Looking back, I don't like the design either, but I created the invitation the way the marketing director asked me to. When I started out as a starry-eyed student at the Art Institute of Orange County, I quickly discovered reality in the classroom was much different from the industry. That, however, is a completely different story and one I cover in another blog entry. I mention my graphic design experience because I was invited this year to review student portfolios at CSU Dominguez Hills. 

CSU Dominguez Hills invited me to review graduating seniors portfolios. It was truly an honor to be included in this event and provide feedback along with the other group of professional reviewers there; some were even alumni from CSUDH. The one-on-one sessions were 30 minutes long and I tried my best to provide detailed feedback for each person I met with, but I have to admit 30 minutes is not enough time to provide the amount of feedback graduating students need. Nevertheless, here is what to expect if you are asked to review. 

1. Be prepared to comment on the quality of their portfolio overall. 

2. Make sure to smile and set the student at ease. 

3. Ask them about themselves - go beyond the portfolio. 

4. The most important question to ask them is:

"what do you want to get out of this review?"

"Is there anything you'd like me to focus on?"

"Do you have a focus already within the design field?" 

5. Quickly narrow in on 3 main topics you'd like to cover in their portfolio. Don't comment on every page. If there is something constructive to mention, keep it short and productive.

Keep it kind. 

6. Establish early on if the student needs encouragement. 

I mention the last point because sometimes encouragement is just what a student needs at this point of their design career. They are leaving the comfort of the classroom and entering the job force where employers are not going to give them advice on how to do their work better. They will either be hired or fired so keep it kind and encourage them. 

If you'd like to read about my experience starting out in the design field please subscribe and check out my next article.