Any graphic designers out there who work in advertising?

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Question:

Could you tell me about your job!? I'm a junior in high school, and I'm starting to make decisions (well, **trying** to make decisions!.!.!.) about college, since application time is in a few months!. Right now, I think I'd like to do something in graphic design as a job, and I was wondering what working in advertising would be like!. So, if you're a graphic designer who works in advertising:
What exactly do you do!? What do you love about your job!? What do you hate!? What did you major in!? What college/university did you attend!? What should I be doing now to prepare for a job in this field!? Do you have any other comments, advice, etc!. for me!?

Thanks! =)Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

I am an art director for a large graphic design firm!. I work with various clients, such as Dell, Boeing, Textron!. I will discuss what design project they need, such as an ad or packaging!. I will then sketch up design ideas, which I delgate to graphic designers to recreate using Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, QuarkXpress!. Then we will present three ideas to the client for selection!. Once they select a design, I hand over the work to the production manager who will prepare the files for printing and find a printer!.

I enjoy working as an Art Director, because I have the freedom to create designs from concept and follow it through to final product!. I love the work environment!. Everyone is always nice and fun!. You can go to work wearing sandals and work in a cool retro office!. I am able to take my work home and they allow me to work flexible hours!.

I dislike about working in my field, the pay is lower than most other professionals, people don't understand the amount of work it takes to design a piece and under appreciate your work, and it can be frustrating trying to figure out what people want designed when they don't have a clue what they want in the first place!.

I earned a BA in Design and I attended CSULB!. I also have an AA from Otis Parson School of Design!.

If you would like to become a graphic designer, you should learn Photshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Flash and Dreamweaver!. Take art classes!. Design projects for fun, like annoucements, greeting cards, wrapping, boxes and so forth for your family!.

Graphic design isn't limited to just working in an advertising firm!. Many companies have in-house graphic designers!. If you don't want to work in an office you can freelance and work from home if you like!.

Degree isn't as important as your portfolio!. You need to build up your portfolio and your hands on experience!.Www@QuestionHome@Com