Expert: Andre Hickman - 3/17/2008

Question
QUESTION: hello.

do i have to earn a uni degree in graphic design in order to learn 3D max .and what is the best way to learn this prog and does it allow to have a good job alone without other programs.
thank you

ANSWER: Hello...

I will keep this one short and sweet. You can learn ANYTHING without a degree.  A degree is someone else's approval of your development, but if you REALLY want to learn something, You will find whatever resources you can, and spend countless hours seeking out the knowledge to accomplish your goal.

I am not saying that a degree is not beneficial, but I will say that from my personal experience, I do not have a degree in graphic design, nor have I ever taken a course in 3D max.  My degree is in Mechanical Engineering/Physics, but I had a passion for graphics, and after gaining a degree in something unrelated, I developed the study habits and tenacity to teach myself graphics, by which I make my living.

I would never put all my eggs in one basket, that is, you will definitely need supporting software to complete any graphics arsenal.  Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are a great place to start.  You can do anything that you want to do, even without formal training, but there are still NO SHORTCUTS.  Even thou I trained myself, I probably put in more time and energy learning than I would have if I had a formal education, because I had no readily available direction and resources. I spent days on end researching and developing my craft to try to become the best.

Which ever route you take, you will only get out of it what you put in...If you put in the time, energy, and patience, you will reap more than if you just do enough to get by and make a grade...You have to want it for yourself. You have to be hungry for it.  If you have that hunger, nothing can stop you from achieving your goal!

Start learning anything by simply looking up "3D Max tutorials", "Photoshop tutorials", etc. in Google or Yahoo search engines. You will find tons of resources that way.

Cheers,
Andre

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Andre.

your answer made me make a descision.but i want to ask you about the age bracket.for now i am few years after 20 is this a porblem to tart and catch up?
thank you

Answer
I started graphic design at age 23.  Don't worry about where you start.  Focus on where you want to end up.  I knew that I was behind, and underprivileged with resources when I started, but I didn't let that stop me.  I focused on where I wanted to go, and surpassed the teachings of institutions.  I now help many students who are in school for graphic design, video, and 3D animation.  That is only through God's grace, and a hunger and passion to be successful.  

There are many obstacles that one will encounter without a formal education, but it is really just a matter of having the opportunity to present your work before the right people, and when you get that opportunity to be at the 'top of your game'...that is, to blow their minds when they see your work! You can see some of mine at www.andrehickman.com

Cheers,
Andre