Last weekend, Spoolia visited the University of Maryland to conduct portfolio reviews for the UMD AIGA group. It may have been a while since two of our designers were running across McKeldin Mall to get to classes, but luckily we didn’t have any trouble finding our way to Stamp for the event.
The UMD AIGA executive board greeted us with breakfast and surprised us each with a Pantone mug. We nerded out over the pretty colors and believe that the special welcome was a great way to start our day. We were happy to see so many of our professional design friends also show up to impart wisdom and plenty of students eager for feedback.
Throughout the morning, we met one-on-one with students and saw a lot of inspired work. With breaks and free time built into our schedules, we had chances to double and triple up to review portfolios and help provide a better critique. The students showed us that they’re working hard to prepare themselves for design careers as they presented museum identities, magazine spreads, and campus clubs and internship work. Although much of our industry is moving towards a digital world, it was interesting to see that, for the most part, they chose to work in print and show their projects in physical portfolios. Even mocking up boards is an art and we made sure to not only give advice on project designs, but also how to better present their work. The difference between a good and great designer is in the details.
Portfolio reviews were a great way to combine two things that are important to us: education and community service. Being Terp alumni, it was also great to give back to our alma mater and meet emerging designers. And since we rubbed Testudo’s nose on our way out, we look forward to seeing more great work from UMD AIGA’s members soon!
Thanks to Niklas Berry for photos from the event and John T. Consoli for the photo of Stamp.
