Graduation – a reflection on my time as a content creator
In a few days, I will be graduating with undergraduate degree from Quinnipiac University. With this huge change in my life, I have spent a lot of time reflecting on my journey as a content creator.
Since I can remember, I have loved making things. It didn’t matter if it was drawing a picture in art class or building some Ikea furniture my father just bought. There was nothing more rewarding than seeing the results of my hard work pay off.
In high school, I started taking graphic design classes. This was the point in my life where I became the man I am today. Graphic design combined my loves for creating and technology and also gave me an outlet to put my hard-work and creativity toward something that had function.
In college, I loved learning new things and adding to my creative skill set. I picked up photography and social media work. I learned so many different types and styles of design. Was I the best student in the world? No. I definitely overworked myself and turned in a lot of work late. However, that doesn’t mean that I didn’t enjoy learning.
For a while I struggled to find my niche. I didn’t know if I wanted to be a photographer, or a web designer, or work in print production. Everyone seemed to have a title, and I just wanted to do it all.
Recently I had the opportunity to talk to a number of experienced professionals in the fields I am interested, and not one of them told me to narrow my interest. In fact, everyone told me that being well rounded was crucial to getting hired.
So, If I can offer up any advice from my journey so far, it would be to stay well rounded and to love learning. The digital world we are in is changing every day. New technologies and skills are emerging every day. We need to stay on top of these things in order to be effective without work.
The world around you is going to say that you need to have a title or a niche. I say, force yourself to stay well rounded and learn new skills. Exploration is crucial to creativity.
Hi! My name is Peyton McKenzie.
I am a professional graphic designer, photographer and content creator.
I encourage you to explore my portfolio to get a better idea of the work I create. If you are interested in working with me or have inquiries of any kind, don’t hesitate to reach out over email.
