IDEA18 alumni offer advice to IDEA19 as they begin industry practicum week 2 of 8 at agencies across Vancouver
Thank you to IDEA18 alumni Annie Chang, CK Papilla, Vivay Li, Danielle Vallée, Angela Schmold and Juliana Vieira for their words of wisdom to IDEA19 as they begin their industry practicums. Their advice includes cracking some jokes, keep asking for advice, meet new people and socialize!
“You’re probably excited, nervous, and maximizing your sweat glands right now, and all of those emotions and armpit responses are totally normal. Breathe. Remember that you’re not expected to get everything right. You’re there to work, but you’re also there to grow—to make mistakes and learn how to fix them, and in time, you’ll do less of them more often. Stay humble and listen to advice, but crack some jokes and light up good laughs. Be there because you want to and because you have something unique to contribute. As Shia Labeouf once said, “Just do it.” And you will. You’ll do great.”
“My advice is to keep asking for advice! Your practicum is a great opportunity to work alongside great designers/illustrators/studios and absorb what they absorbed. They were once students of the creative trade as well, and from my experience, they were happy to share that knowledge dip. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, and be open to continually grow well into your career path.”
“Outside of doing good work, I think it’s important for practicum students to socialize. Yes, socialize! Talk to your co-workers. Ask them questions about the industry and what events you can volunteer for or take part in. Ask them about whatever tickles your fancy. Be curious about people (and they will be curious about you). Being shy is not a helpful trait in the “real world,” and being comfortable around people benefits many aspects of life, both professionally and personally. I know some people may find this difficult, but the challenge is worthwhile. I used to have a lot of anxiety around people, and I’m very glad that’s no longer the case.”
“Make sure you work hard but work with intention. Think about what the company you’re working for can do for you. Decide what you really want out of your practicum and make it happen. I wish IDEA19 all luck! I’m sure you’ll all do great.
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“If you find yourself with spare time on your hands (e.g. your agency doesn’t have a task for you), don’t reward yourself with Instagram or Facebook. Start a new project, read a book, or write your blog posts.”
“Work hard and be yourself! It can be nerve-racking to work in a new environment and be with co-workers with years of experience. But remember the studio chose you for a reason. So, don’t be nervous and have confidence in your own work. At the same time, work hard and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. It is ok if you don’t know everything because you are still learning. So, go around, ask questions, and meet new people! And, remember to enjoy your time there and have fun :) ”
Late Admission to the Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication at Capilano University in North Vancouver, BC for Fall 2019 runs February 8 to April 10, 2019. No submissions for Fall 2019 will be accepted after Wednesday, April 10, 2019.
