Master the basics, experiment, evaluate, read & write.

Design is a process, and in most cases, students should learn to
walk before they run. Filters, gradients, lens blurs and stretched type cannot mask missing fundamentals. Learn, and truly understand the importance of a grid. Learn how to select and optimize typeface choice for a given design problem. Create type specimen sheets, so that you have an understanding of how Baskerville appears at both 7pt. and 72pt. Once you have a solid understanding of the basics, start
to experiment.

Having taught for several years now, one of the common traits
among design students that I’ve noticed, is to hold back. I think the problem is two-fold; first, students become so concerned with their class standing, that they inhibit their own experimentation for fear of
a poor grade; second, students know their strengths and will typically play to those because the result will be comfortable. The university setting is a place where students should be taking risks and experimenting. There will be plenty of time as a working
professional to create expected design solutions.

One of the most important aspects of design education in my
opinion is exposing students to professional work, both good and bad, and dissecting it. What works? What doesn’t? Why were certain choices made? Is the color palette successful? What about type selection? Many students look at professional design and think it’s perfect because it made to a retail shelf, I think questions need to be asked in order for students to have a better understanding of what they’re looking at,
and also making it more accessible from a critical standpoint.

In addition to some of the design links I provided on the page “what sites do you recommend,” books still hold significant value. Some of
my favorites books from an educational standpoint are: The Elements of Typographic Style by Robert Bringhurst, A Type Primer by John Kane, Looking Closer 3 Classic Writings on Graphic Design, and MTIV Process, Inspiration and Practice for the New Media Designer by
Hillman Curtis. All are good reads with pertinent, valuable design related information.

I delve a bit deeper into this topic on the page “is writing about
my work important,” but as a student, I think it’s important to document your thoughts and interests. Thinking through and writing about a project, prior to designing it, will give you deeper insight into your intentions, reasons and method in which you might approach
the assignment. Your presentation skills will typically improve as
well, because you have a full understanding of your concept and
design approach.

These five aspects, in addition to portfolio building, exposure to
clients through freelance, internships or volunteer opportunities,
are crucial to a positive design education.