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Create Your Design Portfolio

What is a portfolio?

A portfolio is typically a website that you create, or a PowerPoint (converted into a .pdf) that provides examples of your work and projects. The best portfolio effortlessly highlights your skills, achievements and intellect.

Why should I make one?

For a few reasons: a) to provide visual proof of what you can offer to your potential employer; b) to stand out from your competition; and c) to market yourself professionally.

Examples

  • Sean Hammett – http://www.seanhammett.com/
  • William Jewett – http://www.williamjewett.com/
  • Grace Qu - https://www.gracequ.com/

What should I put in it?

Your sketches, engineering projects, graphics, diagrams, AV clips, a modified resume, and/or writing samples. Think about your past courses (ENGS 89/90), internships (e.g., you innovated a pre-existing tool), and extracurricular activities (e.g., you built a bridge in the woods).

Do I really need one?

If you are looking to secure a job or internship in product design/development, architecture, mechanical engineering, or web development, then, yes!

Who is your audience?

A corporation? Consultancy? Boutique design firm? Keep this question in mind as you create your portfolio.
Remember: Your portfolio is about which skills and creativity you can offer an employer.

How do I make one?

You can create your portfolio in PowerPoint and convert it into a PDF by using a platform to host your portfolio, or create your own website. Check out the resources below to get started.

  • Adobe Tutorials & Graduation Asset Migration
  • Carbonmade
  • ‍Dartmouth Web Hosting Tools‍
  • Krop‍
  • Portfoliopen‍
  • Squarespace‍
  • Weebly‍
  • Wix‍
  • Wordpress

Tips

  • Create a visually appealing homepage introducing yourself
  • Organize your work so that your best projects are first. Just like a resume, employers don’t have all day to examine your work.
  • Keep an inspiration folder and add to it often.
  • Check blogs daily (e.g., Industrial Design Served, core77, Gizmodo, Engadget, and MocoLoco)
  • Tell a story of your solution, and always link your sketches back to your initial problem
  • Back up your work. Then do it again.
  • LinkedIn Learning: Creating your Personal Brand
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