We're spotlighting some of the talented soon to be or recent grads of Columbia and their work...as well as services they've used through the Portfolio Center (of course). Blake Wells, Audio Arts & Acoustics major, recently set-up his text-based portfolio using Portfolio Web. He shared with us his approach to showcasing his skills online.
PC: What industry do you want to work in?
Blake: Acoustical Consulting
PC: How are you showcasing or promoting your work?
Blake: Scanning documents from previous classes and a lab notebook. Displaying my resume and other attributes that will show that I am qualified for the position I'm applying for.
PC: What type of information or samples are in your portfolio?
Blake: Written reports, a lab notebook, and a preview of a final project that is still in the works.
PC: How did the Portfolio Center help or what services did you receive through us?
Blake: I was able to create a website that potential employers could navigate to in order to learn more about the Acoustics program at Columbia and the work that I am able to produce. It also created a place for people to see my resume if they lost it.
PC: Why do you think displaying / packaging your work is important?
Blake: It's important for people to see what kind of work I am able to do after my education at Columbia. The Acoustics program is unique and many people do not know much about it. Showing my work reflects the caliber of the school and what I can offer to potential employers.
PC: Anything else you think students should know before putting their portfolio together?
Blake: Know what to show, and what not to show. Keep it simple and to the point. Don't overwhelm your audience with too much info, but put your best foot forward. Try to be as creative as possible, but still maintain a professional atmosphere. Have reasons for why you did what you did because interviewers will reference things you display in the portfolio and have questions for you about it.
-----Blake used Portfolio Web, Columbia's free web publishing system for seniors & grad students, to get his work online. If you're a senior or grad student interested in moving your work to the world wide web check out an upcoming Portfolio Web Workshop during April 28-May2.
