During the junior year of the graphic design programs, students are required to pass to continue to their senior year. The portfolio review follows the class Advanced Problems in Graphic Design 2.

What is due?
6 projects (3 from AP2 course, the other 3 TBD – as your best work from other classes)

How should work be mounted?
15” by 20” black Bainbridge, precut is cleanest, 100 sheet boxes available at Art Mart, you get a discount if you buy a box. Purchase a box as a group to save money. Flush mount posters to edge of 15 by 20. All other projects leave a border. Use clear mounting corners for spreads and acetate pockets to hold books. Small books can be loose, but put them in a baggie for protection.

Do I need a portfolio case?
Your work should be protected in a case or large envelope. It does not need to be the final case you intend to make or purchase in senior year.

How should I label the work?
You should create labels for the back of each board with your name, project title and description. Assume the viewer knows nothing about the projects or you, the information you provide should be clear and well-written.

Criteria for Evaluation:
All sections of Advanced Problems in Graphic Design 2 will include a comprehensive portfolio review as an entrance requirement for Senior Seminar. The following observable goals and essential requirements will be the basis for your evaluation:

Portfolio excellence
exhibited and demonstrated in:

1. Strong concepts and problem solving skills
2. Command of the use of typography and imagery (illustrative and photographic)
3. Excellence in use of design principles and visual concepts (projects must have strong ideas behind them)
   
4. Elements of creativity/ingenuity/spark of talent in project pieces
   
5. Sensibility to aesthetics (your work should represent a competent level of design sophistication); also mastery in applied color theory and principles
   
6. Command of software programs utilized in the graphic design profession – evident in your portfolio work represented
   
7. Strong craft and superior presentation quality in portfolio
   
8. Portfolio samples that demonstrate successful outcomes from projects involving successful team participation and interpersonal skills in leadership

Communication excellence
exhibited and demonstrated in:

1. Verbal and writing skills – ability to present work, articulate concepts and ideas
   
2. Design vocabulary, principles, history and opinion developed to a level that demonstrates a strong foundation for the design profession
   
3. Ability to write and show accuracy in written aspects of portfolio, resume, letters and all communication

Presentation and professionalism
exhibited and demonstrated in:
Ability to present oneself in a professional manner in both interview, public speaking and presentation settings (This is not a requirement for the portfolio review process, but is required upon completion of Senior Seminar.)

IMPORTANT: The portfolio review is a standard, required process for credible design departments throughout the U.S. Instituting portfolio review is a valuable tool to strengthen your work – to help you be competitive with other candidates for the job market. Portfolios grow and improve immeasurably from the portfolio review process.Take this opportunity to grow/improve/test your portfolio before senior review and interviews. Please remember: portfolio excellence is required for successful entry into the design profession and does not guarantee job placement. Your instructors will make every effort to help you build a marketable portfolio.We support your growth and have your best interest in mind.