This year has been about discovering who we are as graphic designers – finding our strengths and interests, and defining ourselves in the profession. As we get closer to the reality of making a career in this industry, we are gradually exposed to the actuality of the profession – meeting some of the people who have been there and have been a part of it, and being introduced to projects with a much more real world impact and implementation. As our studies progress, we are gradually becoming much more aware of our responsibilities as graphic designers. With a better understanding of the real world effects and influences of our designs to the public, we have gained a sense of accountability for our designs and a realisation that whatever we put out there, will affect other people – their decisions, how they communicate, and how they view the world. 

As opportunities arise to work on projects given by professionals who have worked in the industry and have greatly contributed to the design community, we are given a first hand experience through the perspective of the designers themselves, as we hear them talk and having given a chance to spend some time with them. Hearing their insights, opinions and critiques, helps you to see where you are, and guides you where you need to be. Ian Anderson is one of these people. Through his workshops, we have learned a great deal about the relevance of what graphic designers do. Most importantly, we have learned about who we are, and why we do what we do as visual communicators. Throughout the time we have spent with him, we are constantly reminded that every design should have a reason for existing. Purpose is what makes us a designer, and ultimately, it is what makes us necessary. Without it, we are redundant.

The year has also been about personal growth. Ending with a successful year last year, there is a conscious effort to maintain good academic grades – finding myself sticking to one method of working that I am comfortable with. In the process, losing creative spontaneity, experimentation and discovery, thus making the designs look restrained, and the whole task stressful and pressured. Making mistakes and embracing them, is what I think the most valuable lesson I have learned throughout my second year. Learning to let go and accepting failure, is a very difficult thing to do. But it is what helps us learn, and it is what makes us strive to do better. This took me a while to realise, but once I did, it gave me confidence to try things out of my usual system of working, and grab every opportunity given to us.

Year Overview, Reflective Journal 2010/2011.