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