Week 15: Wrap-Up | Paterson

I'm not going to lie, GRA 217 was intimidating based on the reviews of my peers. I expected the worst. Projects due every week. Many all nighters in the computer labs. Boring and difficult projects and no room for improvement. I have to say...boy was I wrong! This was one of my favorite classes that I have taken at SU so far. Not only were the classes full of information that I never would have known before (like where I can find Helvetica and which typefaces are too visual for their own good), but I can honestly say that my eye for graphic design has improved significantly. I have this class (and of course Prof Taylor and Paul) to thank for that.

I loved all of the projects that we did throughout the semester. I think they definitely provide an introduction to the basics of design while allowing for personal input and diversity. My favorite project was definitely the magazine design (I had so much fun with that that I forgot it was for a class) and I completely appreciate every spread because I now know how much work and attention to detail goes into each page. The interface design gave me some problems, so now I know not to completely judge a web page based on its appearance, it probably took a while to create. The logo really made me think and I love when design projects do this. Designing my identity at this point in life is just as hard as it sounds!

As a TRF major I feel much more comfortable with my ability to judge designs and choose which typefaces I want in my film projects, what type of graphics should appear where, and how much to graphically depict type. I think anyone going into communications is better off with this skill because a simple resume that has a graphic twang will prosper over a boring bulleted list of experiences.

I absolutely loved this class and I'm quite upset that I can't take any more graphics courses while I am at SU (they won't fit into my schedule).

Don't change a thing!