The Consult is not a portfolio review — it is the first event for emerging designers kicking off an ongoing discussion that will probe what it takes to be an emerging designer and how to present yourself as a pro. More than fifty students and emerging designers came out to St. Edwards University to be a part of this event to learn a thing or two from the pros, network, and meet local designers.

The Consult featured six phenomenal panelists that were asked some tough questions about portfolio and professional development, what they expect from hired talent, and even more so what they expect from themselves. Nisa—an emerging designer in the midst of a career change—made us all think when she asked the panelists, “How do I find my why?” Bart Cleveland responded thoughtfully with, “Focus on passion that is right for you first and then watch Simon Sinek’s “Start with the Why” and find a mentor.” Will Chau responded with, “What would you do if you didn’t have to get paid? That’s your “why”.”

Post-panel, some networking was done and tacos were shared before students and emerging designers broke out into round table discussions centered around how to present a portfolio and personal brand. AIGA Austin volunteers made sure to capture some great shots of the break out round tables and caught the notable Marc English with his group up on chairs taking a stand for their portfolios and personal brand. We wrapped the day with an awesome lecture offered by the Vice President of AIGA Austin, Oen Hammonds, titled “Everything They Didn’t Teach You in School.”

The Consult was intended to give students and emerging designers the inside scoop on best practices for assembling a portfolio to compete in the creative market today. It is the first event of its kind for AIGA Austin and we are excited to continue to bring you future events focused on what it means to be a designer in Austin and how being a member of AIGA, the professional association for design, can help.

Mark your calendar for The Review on April 23rd, 2016 where we will host an Austin-wide portfolio review for students and emerging designers.

The AIGA Austin Board of Directors would like to give a special shout out to the pro panelists that made this possible and the volunteers from our creative Austin community who supported this event.

Panelists |

Will Chau, Bart Cleveland, Marc English, Duncan Hopkins, Michelle Oros, Russell Toynes