Expert: Peter Gabany - 11/6/2008

Question
Hi Peter, I am currently on course to complete my Associates in
Communication Design and I am considering taking the Advertising Design
course which would complete the BFA degree. I already have a three year
Diploma in Graphic Design in which I completed nine years ago in Ireland. My
question is, do you think I should complete my BFA here in Advertising
Design or should would an Associates be enough in landing a job?  I reside in
New York and if I finish my BFA I will be 34.  I would love to get a job now,
but I want to get the best possible job.  I have around three Ad campaigns in
my portfolio and the rest is Graphic Design work.  Sorry for the long
question, any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Answer
Patrick,

I believe that experience at this stage is far more important than the paper. You have 30 years of earning potential left. It's time to put your mojo to work. I rarely discourage going to school but in this case you have got to enter the work force to demonstrate your talent. Waiting longer will hamper your ability to get hired.

It is great that you have a few campaigns to demonstrate your abilities. in this industry people hire talent. Education is good but talent rules. Education proves that you had the ability to start and complete something - this you have done.

I'm unclear as to what position that you wish to get hired at but I assume creative. Please give design agencies a fair shake at well as ad agencies, sales promotion houses and the like.

As it is you have education as a graphic designer - affiliation with AIGA or the New york Art Directors Club (if there is one) would be advantageous. You will have your education in communication design (I'd be interested in what that entails). The need to go further in Ad design other than to get the piece of paper will neither put you ahead of the curve or get you that valuable work experience you most assuredly need. Only because it validates you as employable.

Please stay in touch and let me know your decision. It is tough out there as accounts are shrinking in spend and therefor so are shops. I would have a tendency to favor design shops myself, but then I'm a bit biased.

Best of luck,

Pete Gabany