Staying organized in graphic design school, with a tip from an industry member/professor

How to remain organized while balancing a college schedule

Steven Wehner, a professor here at Nazareth, advocates for staying organized. He had vast experience in the graphic design industry before jumping in the classroom. Steve shares that “...maintaining the analog connection to the digital world was key” for completing projects in a timely manner. He starts off his day by checking to-do lists and narrowing down a daily list of tasks. He does this with his own ‘priority system’ (included in photo), which he created earlier in his career.

(Photo: Organization with a system designed by Professor Steve Wehner)

Organization as a graphic design student is critical. Balancing multiple design courses, liberal arts courses, and life outside of school can add up. Fortunately, there are some fundamental ways to remain on track.

Calendars

A calendar is key. Graphic design students typically receive longer projects rather than shorter weekly assignments and quizzes. A calendar can be utilized to plan progress up to the submission date (planning backward is helpful). This will set goals in stages of time rather than focusing on a single due date. Using this calendar for other classes is just as important. Write out due dates from the very start, and keep on top of assignments.

Color Code

In addition to this, organizing notes, calendars, and anything else pertaining to class schedules by color can be helpful. This will keep the calendar’s appearance less stressful and chaotic when it is opened.

Eliminate Tackling smaller assignments is beneficial in keeping your workload manageable. These smaller achievements will boost confidence in approaching larger projects.

Zero Clutter

Keep the workplace environment organized too! Clutter and untidiness can lead to increased stress and anxiety and affect the production quality of work. Keeping organized is important to be a successful student. Applying this input to daily schedules is a great way to get started.