College Journey by Doniven

College Journey by Doniven - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I first started my journey at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, I was both excited and nervous. I chose to major in Graphic Design because I have always had a passion for art and creativity. However, I soon realized that turning my passion into a career would not be as easy as I had imagined. One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my sophomore year in a course called Advanced Typography.

Typography is a fundamental aspect of graphic design, and I knew it would be crucial to master it if I wanted to succeed in my field. However, the course was more demanding than I anticipated. The professor had high expectations, and the assignments required a deep understanding of both the technical and artistic aspects of typography. I struggled to balance the creative freedom I enjoyed with the precise technical skills the course demanded.

The first few assignments did not go well. I received feedback that my designs lacked cohesion and that I needed to pay more attention to detail. This was disheartening because I had always considered myself a creative person, but here I was, not meeting the standards. I felt overwhelmed and started doubting my abilities. I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to improve.

To overcome this challenge, I decided to seek help and make use of the resources available to me. I reached out to my professor during office hours to discuss my struggles. This turned out to be a pivotal moment. My professor was understanding and offered valuable advice on how to improve my work. He suggested I study more about the history and theory of typography to gain a deeper understanding of its principles. He also recommended some books and online resources that could help me.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We met regularly to discuss assignments, critique each other’s work, and share ideas. This collaborative environment was incredibly beneficial. It allowed me to see different perspectives and learn from my peers. It also helped me build a support network, which made the whole experience less isolating.

I dedicated extra time to practice and refine my skills. I spent hours outside of class experimenting with different typefaces and layouts. I also started paying more attention to the details in everyday typography, whether it was on a billboard or a magazine. This practice helped me develop a more critical eye and improved my ability to create cohesive designs.

Gradually, I began to see improvement in my work. I received more positive feedback from my professor and classmates. By the end of the course, I had not only developed a stronger understanding of typography but also gained confidence in my abilities as a designer. I learned the importance of perseverance, seeking help when needed, and the value of collaboration.

This challenging experience taught me that setbacks are not the end but rather opportunities to learn and grow. It showed me the importance of being open to feedback and the necessity of hard work and dedication. These lessons have been invaluable as I continue my studies in graphic design. They have prepared me to face future challenges with resilience and determination.

In conclusion, the difficulties I faced in my Advanced Typography course were a turning point in my academic journey. They pushed me to improve my skills, seek out resources, and collaborate with others. Overcoming this challenge made me a better student and a more confident designer. I am grateful for the experience because it taught me that with persistence and the right support, I can overcome any obstacle. This mindset will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue my education and eventually pursue a career in graphic design.