Could you use additional funding to finish a project? Apply for the Albert P. Weisman Award. This matching grant provides funding, up to $4000, to a limited number of undergraduate (60 credit hours or more) and graduate students in a variety of media.
The application deadline is Friday, December 12. To help you prepare, we recommend you attend an upcoming information session. This is your opportunity to get questions answered about the application process and receive tips on how to submit a solid proposal for the Award.
Information Sessions:
Wednesday, Oct. 29 @ 12PM
Thursday, Nov. 6 @ 6PM
Tuesday, Nov. 11 @ 10AM
Thursday, Nov. 20 @ 3PM
All sessions will be held in the Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307. Applications and guidelines are available at www.colum.edu/weisman
Sponsorship: The Albert P. Weisman Award is made possible by the generosity of Tony Weisman, the Weisman committee and the many friends of Albert P. Weisman who donate both time and resources to make this award possible.
The Portfolio Center will take part in “Tips on Tuesdays” sponsored by Multicultural Affairs and offer a session geared to help you understand how to showcase your best work. We’ll discuss various portfolio formats and show examples. This is a great session to attend if you're wondering what a portfolio is, if you need one and how to get started. Open to all students.
Date: Tuesday, October 28
Time: 12PM-1PM
Location: 623 S. Wabash, suite 307
This is a MultiPass event
Tracy Nader, copywriter at Wunderman, will be on campus to review copywriting portfolios on Tuesday, October 28 from 6-8PM. Wunderman Chicago is part of a global award-winning promotional agency whose clients include Microsoft (Xbox), Burger King, Vodafone and Coke. Open to juniors, seniors and spring ‘08 graduates.
Call 312.369.7280 to sign-up, show up and SHOW OFF.
WHAT IS SHOW OFF? Show Off is a program that gives students a chance to meet one-on-one with professionals during 20-minute appointments. You can use the time to have our guests give you feedback on your work. It's also a good time to discuss general issues about industry expectations. This is a low pressure way for you to practice interviewing, make connections and ease into the professional realm.
Team up to: Win Awards. Build Your Portfolio.
student advertising and design competition
Entering student competitions sponsored by creative industry groups and publications can put you on the map. Most of the competitions require that you work in creative teams because in the real world EVERYONE WORKS WITH OTHER CREATIVES ALL THE TIME. And so should you. Your department and the Portfolio Center think that these competitions are so valuable that we'll hook you up with other students to form creative teams and pay your submission fees. You supply the bright ideas and artful execution. Later, when you win some heavyweight awards, we'll bask in your reflected glory.
The competitions that we've singled out for this year include: The One Show Student Competition, D&AD Student Awards, Love Your Body, and Columbia's own Spot Shot
Attend the Kick Off meeting for more information: Tuesday, September 23 @ Noon | 623 S. Wabash, room 307 | 312.369.7280 to RSVP
Brought to you by: The Marketing and Communication, IAM, Art & Design, and Film & Video Departments and the Portfolio Center
Senior Copywriter for Cramer-Krasselt, Larry Liss will review copywriting portfolios on Thursday, October 9 from 6-9PM. Cramer-Krasselt knows a thing or two about advertising, branding, direct and interactive marketing, media, PR, promotion, and market research services. With clients that include Porsche, Benjamin Moore and AirTrans Airways, this firm is said to be the fourth largest independent agency in the US. Open to juniors, seniors and spring ‘08 graduates.
Call 312.369.7280 to sign-up, show up and SHOW OFF.
WHAT IS SHOW OFF? Show Off is a program that gives students a chance to meet one-on-one with professionals during 20-minute appointments. You can use the time to have our guests give you feedback on your work. It's also a good time to discuss general issues about industry expectations. This is a low pressure way for you to practice interviewing, make connections and ease into the professional realm.
Director of Recruitment Ashley Houston of GolinHarris will be on campus Tuesday, October 14 from 12-2PM to meet with interested PR students about their portfolio. GolinHarris is a leading public relations firm with over 50 years experience. They have 34 offices and offer a distinctive combination of global resources and world-class expertise -- working with clients like Nintendo, McDonald's and Sprint. Columbia College juniors, seniors, grad students and May 2008 grads are eligible to participate in these portfolio reviews.
Call 312.369.7280 to sign-up, show up and SHOW OFF.
WHAT IS SHOW OFF? Show Off is a program that gives students a chance to meet one-on-one with professionals during 20-minute appointments. You can use the time to have our guests give you feedback on your work. It's also a good time to discuss general issues about industry expectations. This is a low pressure way for you to practice interviewing, make connections and ease into the professional realm.
One of the world's top booking agencies just happens to be in our back yard. The Windish Agency handles Battles, Justice, Kid Sister, Girl Talk, Dizzee Rascal and Jamie Lindell, among others. They will be on campus Wednesday, October 8 from 12-2PM looking to meet with AEMM, PR, and marketing students. Columbia College juniors, seniors, grad students and May 2008 grads are eligible to participate in these portfolio reviews.
Call 312.369.7280 to sign-up, show up and SHOW OFF.
WHAT IS SHOW OFF? Show Off is a program that gives students a chance to meet one-on-one with professionals during 20-minute appointments. You can use the time to have our guests give you feedback on your work. It's also a good time to discuss general issues about industry expectations. This is a low pressure way for you to practice interviewing, make connections and ease into the professional realm.
On Thursday, September 25 @ 4:30PM come hear from creative recruiters about what they look for in advertising art and copywriting portfolios. This is your opportunity to hear from folks that hire only the best and how you can get their attention with a stand-out advertising portfolio. Open to all Columbia College students and alumni.
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Pitchfork Media, Inc. will be on campus scouting for interns and giving feedback to students. Self-motivated journalism, AEMM, marketing and PR students who would like more information about this internship should sign-up for an appointment scheduled for Monday, September 29 between 10AM-12PM. Columbia College juniors, seniors, grad students and May 2008 grads are eligible to participate in these portfolio reviews.
Call 312.369.7280 to sign-up, show up and SHOW OFF.
WHAT IS SHOW OFF? Show Off is a program that gives students a chance to meet one-on-one with professionals during 20-minute appointments. You can use the time to have our guests give you feedback on your work. It's also a good time to discuss general issues about industry expectations. This is a low pressure way for you to practice interviewing, make connections and ease into the professional realm.
ALARM Magazine, a bi-monthly collection of unique, inspiring, and astonishing stories from the independent music and art community, will be on campus September 22 from 12PM-2PM. Why? To meet with journalism, AEMM, marketing and PR students looking for feedback on their work or those who just want to talk about career options and possible internships. Columbia College juniors, seniors, grad students and May 2008 grads are eligible to participate in these portfolio reviews.
Call 312.369.7280 to sign-up, show up and SHOW OFF.
WHAT IS SHOW OFF? Show Off is a program that gives students a chance to meet one-on-one with professionals during 20-minute appointments. You can use the time to have our guests give you feedback on your work. It's also a good time to discuss general issues about industry expectations. This is a low pressure way for you to practice interviewing, make connections and ease into the professional realm.
Seniors, grad students, recent alumni and (starting this year) juniors can use Web Agent, Columbia’s free web publishing system, to get your best work online.
Attend a workshop, set-up your account, learn more about the system and see sample sites that use text, images, video and audio to showcase portfolio work. This workshop will be hands-on so feel free to bring work samples with you on CD or USB drive.
Read the Web Agent guidelines then call 312-369-7280 to reserve your seat.
Starting September 9:
Tuesdays - 12pm to 2pm & 2pm to 4pm (these times alternate weekly), 600 S Michigan, room 709
Wednesdays - 12pm to 2pm, 624 S Michigan, room 606 and 4pm to 6pm, 600 S Michigan, room 709
Thursdays - 12pm to 2pm, 623 S Wabash, room 423
Fridays - 12pm to 2pm, 600 S Michigan, room 709
You and a graphic designer in a room for 45 minutes making an aspect of your portfolio better. For free.* Limited spots available. Juniors, seniors, grad students and May ’08 graduates are eligible to participate.
To participate on Thursday, September 25 you MUST RSVP by September 18. Visit the Portfolio Production page to read guidelines, eligibility requirements and get reservation details.
Next Graphic Design Assistance Day dates:
Thursday, October 23 – Register by October 16
Thursday, November 20 – Register by November 13
*Printing not included. Graphic Design Assistance Day is part of Portfolio Production Week brought to you by the Portfolio Center.
Yes. We will arrange for you to have your business card designed. For free*. Need we say more? Oh yeah, only on the dates listed below and sign up early. Limited spots available. Juniors, seniors, grad students and May ’08 graduates are eligible to participate.
To participate on Tuesday, September 23 you MUST RSVP by September 16. Visit the Portfolio Production page to read guidelines, eligibility requirements and get reservation details.
Next Business Card Day dates:
Tuesday, October 21 – Register by October 14
Tuesday, November 18 – Register by November 11
*Printing not included. Business Card Day is part of Portfolio Production Week brought to you by the Portfolio Center.
It's time for Columbia's annual fall semester kick off we all know and love-- Convocation! Be sure to look for the Portfolio Center booth among the crowd of students, organizations and departments. Get there early and you might snag yourself a free tee, button or poster from the Portfolio Center.
Date: Thursday, August 28
Time: 12PM-3PM
Location: Grant Park, Balbo & Columbus Drive
Take a trip with the Portfolio Center to some of the top companies and organizations in Chicago. You’ll experience the working environment, mingle with professionals and engage in conversations about presenting work, portfolios and professionalism. Any student from any major is welcome to attend any of the field trips. Limited spots available. Call 312.369.7280 to reserve your spot.
Fall ’08 Trips:
October 6 - The Onion / CANCELLED /
October 15 - Wall To Wall Recording Studio @ Noon / FULL /
November 12 - Avenue Edit @ Noon
November 20 – Metro Chicago @ 5PM / FULL /
Brought to you by the Portfolio Center in collaboration with Columbia Click.
As the new semester gears up we are very pleased to welcome our new neighbor and BFF, Christie Anderson. Christie has just been hired at the College Advising Center and is available to assist with questions related to career development. She helps both students exploring career paths, and provides assistance with resumes, cover letters, interviewing skills, and job search strategies. Contact her directly at 312.369.6985 to schedule an appointment, or you can send quick questions via email.
Get A Great Portfolio Piece!
Heck, maybe even WIN a competition...
One of the most acclaimed advertising and graphic design student competitions is the annual One Show College Competition.
Click here for more info:
http://www.oneclub.org/oc/education/college/
and do your school proud!
We spend a ton of time here at the aptly named Portfolio Center ranting and raving about getting your Body of Work in order for your portfolio. But what does that mean?
For some of our students the idea of the portfolio is fairly well established: Photographers are looking to get their print book put together, Filmmakers are putting together their reels, Broadcast Journalists are working on their resume tapes, but what about our other majors?
What the &$#@&! can the Portfolio Center do for you?
Well…as it turns out a lot, but as with all things in life first you have to know what you need. Our services come two-fold, of course we handle an assortment of production services, but your first step into our office should be educational. We want our students to be empowered and knowledgeable, savvy and prepared for the industry they are looking to make a living in.
To that end we have cobbled together a sketch here; an overview of what your portfolio might include and some guidelines to collecting materials to that end and finally a brief overview as to what else we can do to help.
What all AEMM, PR & Marketing students share is a need to demonstrate their vision over the course of a project. This is something that can be easily documented through your portfolio. What you really need to exhibit is how you think about your work through all stages, from conception to execution. This is the same if you are a band manager as it is if you are a brand manager (clever!). Employers will look for the same critical thinking skills: what was your vision for the project, how did your engage that initiative and what did you learn in the process.
Another constant here is writing. In addition to your interpersonal skills it is intrinsic to demonstrate that you can communicate concisely. This could be press releases, project proposals, or artist bios. Be sure to have as many people as possible read and reread your work. This could be family members, faculty, or peers. Really you can’t get enough feedback and remember, “writing is rewriting.”
So what does this all mean, this blur of words? Well a few things. If you are still confused it is ok, we are here to help. Please look at our Student Quick Guide and start with your Creative Industry Liaison. We want to help and if we don’t know the answer we will make something up that sounds good, or, introduce you to one of our many industry experts whom can further illuminate the in-and-outs of your industry. We also have events all semester long where we bring in experts from you field for one-on-one meetings (Show Offs) or class based presentations (Sessions). All this with the hope that the more familiar you are with what is expected of you the more honed your Body Of Work will be. Ultimately our services are here to help you present yourself as both professional and confident. The time you invest now will pay off in dividends as your career unfolds.
We promise!
Software can be expensive. When you don’t have the funds to purchase the software needed to manipulate your work, be it audio, video, and or image based, what do you do? The answer is not to obtain an illegal copy of that software needed, but to look for a free legit alternative. A great place to find these options is by using the internet. You will want to do a search for “open source software” or you check these two links to see what they have to offer. The use of open source software is a great alternative plus it can save you money and have the same results as almost any commercial software.
Q: What kind of software will I find?
A: DVD ripping, video conversion, audio conversion, graphic/photo editor, and much more.
Here are two great resources:
The Portfolio Center and Columbia College Chicago as a whole does not provide technical support to open source programs that are available. The Portfolio Center is simple providing information on free legit software. If you choose to download and use any of the open source software you are responsible for reading and adhering to the user agreements provided by the creator of the software.
Columbia College has tons of student organizations. In addition to school work, involving yourself in an organization is practically a must in developing your body of work. The listing will look good on your resume and there may be activities initiated by the group that could be used in your portfolio.
While being active in student groups is a great start; don’t limit yourself to campus connections. Remember: you ultimately want to be a professional so start smoozing with the big dogs (or mid-size dogs) now. Nearly every industry has a professional membership organization. If you’re unsure of the exact names of associations relevant to your interest; usually a general internet search with the industry followed by associations, such as “film associations,” will bring up either several direct links or a link with a compiled list.
Joining a professional organization gives you access to numerous resources that may be offered through the association, including industry insights, educational seminars, and social networking events. Plus, once you begin making contacts you’ll have more leverage to get the scoop on jobs, informational interviews and informal portfolio reviews. The best time to network is before you need the contacts.
Portfolios don't just make themselves you know. Some assembly is required. And while the Portfolio Center is available to help senior students document, design and produce some aspects of their portfolios we don't provide printing, duplication or packaging materials. But we compiled a list of companies commonly used for portfolio related supplies and services; including portfolio books, web domain registration, CD/DVD duplication and printing. Check out our materials and service vendors list and imagine all the possibilities for presenting your body of work.
Pulling your work together for the first time for inclusion in a portfolio can be daunting. But you need to buck up and get it done. Then, get your portfolio in front of others and welcome any feedback on how your work is being received. Rachal Duggan, an art & design major, had a huge body of work in illustration. Before this past spring, she'd never organized or presented that work to anyone that could actually hire her. Rachal used the Portfolio Center's Show Off program to work through her presentation jitters.
PC: What industry do you want to work in?
Ideally, I'd like to work within commercial illustration.PC: What’s in your portfolio?
My portfolio is a series of drawings I recently completed.
PC: How are you showing your work to others?
I participated in a show off (portfolio) review at the Portfolio Center, with Langley Creative, an established illustration agency. Receiving professional feedback is invaluable. The Portfolio Center has industry contacts that are willing to come in and sit down with students.
PC: Why do you think receiving feedback on your work is important?
After countless critiques in the classroom, a working professional's advice is vital. From that, you can take what they say and then use it to fine-tune your portfolio.
PC: Anything else you think is important for other students to know?
It can be incredibly intimidating to meet with a professional and peel open your book. After you try it, you gain confidence in the representation of yourself. After one meeting, you'll be ready for several more.
---Rachal worked with a designer to layout her illustrations for inclusion in a portfolio that she can use both in print form and as a PDF. If you're interested in creating your print book, the Portfolio Center will host "DIY Print Book Workshop" and "Clean Up Your Image Day" events during Portfolio Boot Camp during June 9-13.
SAVE THE DATES FOR PORTFOLIO BOOT CAMP! Shape up your body of work during this week long program especially for recent grads. You’ll have the opportunity to receive feedback on how to present your work and tighten up your portfolio presentation through production services. December 2007 & May 2008 graduates are eligible.
Full schedule with dates, times and registration information is coming soon but here are a few of the programs that will be offered:
Portfolio Web Workshop / Move your work onto the world wide web by attending a tutorial session for Portfolio Web, Columbia’s free website publishing system. You’ll have the chance to set-up an account plus we’ll show you sample sites that use text, images, video and audio to showcase portfolio work.
Photo Doc Day / Get high quality photos of your portfolio samples taken by advanced photography students. For fashion design, product design, flatwork and paintings, headshots, sculpture, packaging . . . anything 3D…if it fits in the door, we'll get it shot for you.
Covered: CD/DVD Package Design Day / Is your work covered? If not, we’ll pair you with a graphic designer to create a cover and disc label for your work. Sending out your film, reel, demo, aircheck or resume tape on CD or DVD with your name scrawled in Sharpie just won’t do...
Short Cuts: Reel & Resume Tape Editing / Bring in your footage* and meet with an editor who will cut a professional reel or resume tape for you. Open to film & video, television, and broadcast journalism recent grads ready to assemble their final reel. *Note: All footage must either be in QuickTime (.MOV), DVCAM, or MiniDV format.
DIY Print Books / Learn how to create and update your print book or press kit. We’ll discuss resources and techniques relating to layouts, image usage and font selection all geared to give you tools for do-it-yourself application.
Clean Up Your Image Day / Ready to organize your work into a PDF, print book or press kit? You’ll have the chance to work with a designer on layout assistance, font selection/type treatment, image cleanup and image manipulation.
We're opening up our doors and giving current Portfolio Web account users several chances to come in, ask questions and continue the plight to online portfolio greatness. If you need individual attention, can't quite get your formatting right, or maybe you can't decide on which design works best with your content then this is the time to resolve those issues.
Schedule:
Monday, May 12 / 12-2PM & 4-6PM
Tuesday, May 13 / 11AM-1PM & 4-6PM [4-6PM session will be held in room 419 of 623 S. Wabash]
Wednesday, May14 / 12-2PM & 3-5PM
Thursday, May 15 / 10AM-12PM & 3-5PM (last chance before Industry Night)
Friday, May 16 / No walk-in hours...you should be at Manifest anyway
Location: 623 S. Wabash room 307 unless otherwise noted above.
Open only to senior and grad students who currently have an account. If you'd like a free web account and you are a senior or grad student please give us a ring at 312-344-7280 for more information.
Back by popular demand: Portfolio Web Workshop Week. Seniors this is your chance to move your work into the world wide web. Attend one of the Portfolio Center's web site tutorial sessions during May 5-9 that will introduce you to Portfolio Web, Columbia’s free website publishing system. You’ll have the chance to set-up an account and we’ll show you sample sites that use text, images, video and audio to showcase portfolio work. This session will be hands-on so feel free to bring work samples with you.
Walk-ins welcome, but pre-registration is encouraged to ensure you get a seat. Sign-up by calling 312.344.7280. Open to seniors only.
Monday, May 5
4-6PM / 600 S. Michigan, Room 709
Wednesday, May 7
4-6PM / 600 S. Michigan, Room 709
Friday, May 9
Noon-2PM / 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Room 709
If you currently have an account and just need some help figuring next steps please come by the Portfolio Center with your questions during Portfolio Web Walk-In Hours.
We're opening up our doors and giving current Portfolio Web account users several chances to come in, ask questions and continue the plight to online portfolio greatness. If you need individual attention, can't quite get your formatting right, or maybe you can't decide on which design works best with your content then this is the time to resolve those issues.
Schedule:
Monday, May 5 / 1-3PM
Tuesday, May 6 / Sorry...no walk-in hours
Wednesday, May 7 / 3-5PM
Thursday, May 8 / 3-5PM
Friday, May 9 / 10AM-12PM
Location: 623 S. Wabash room 307
Open only to senior and grad students who currently have an account. If you'd like a free web account and you are a senior or grad student please give us a ring at 312-344-7280 for more information.
Industry Night is a series of 5 campus wide receptions that happen on May 15 (the night before Manifest) that will give graduating students access to working arts & media professionals. Over 250 professionals have RSVPed so far. This is your chance to trot out your portfolio, wave your resume around and pass out those business cards. It’s called networking. And it’s vital to getting started in your profession. But maybe you need a little bit more information or some encouragement...that's fine...hop on over to the Portfolio on Wednesday, May 7. We'll be giving tips on what to bring, how to dress, and hearty handshake demos between 11AM-4PM, every hour on the hour.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Here is a quick tutorial on how to resize your images for the Portfolio Web system using Photoshop.
Go to File > Open… and select the image to be resized.
Go to Image > Image Size… a pop-up window will display your image size and resolution information.
Make sure that the Pixel Dimension fields are chained together in order to keep your image proportion correct. (If the Pixel Dimension fields are NOT chained together, then place a check mark in the box next to Constrain Proportions)
Then In the Image Size window you will NEED to lower the resolution to 72.
In the drop down box located at the bottom of the Image Size window you will want to choose”bicubic sharper (best for reduction)”
In the Pixel Dimension field lower the width to 600 pixels* (make sure you have selected pixels NOT Percent in the drop down box that is to the right of the width field) then press OK. *Remember NOT to exceed 600 pixels wide nor 800 pixels high.
Go to File > Save As… and select JPEG as your file type and choose a destination for your file. Remember to give your file a different name, so you avoid writing over and losing your original file.
Choose JPEG from the drop down box. **IMPORTANT** Rename your file so you do not loose the original file.
We realize that you may not know exactly where to begin when it comes time to build your portfolio. Quick word of advice: Start with your content. Does any of your work need to be documented? If so, there are several services that the Portfolio Center offers to help seniors and grad students capture their work. Lani Schuster, an MFA student in the Book & Paper Arts program, utilized the Portfolio Center's Photo Doc Day to get high quality photographs taken of her paper art.
PC: What type of work do you produce?
Lani: I am a Book Artist, Paper Artist and Sculptor.
PC: How do you showcase or promote your work?
Lani: I participate in exhibitions and with the help of the Portfolio Center I will have a website.
PC: What type of information or samples are in your portfolio?
Lani: I include an artist statement along with slides, digital images and samples of my books, handmade paper and sculptures.
PC: How did the Portfolio Center help?
Lani: They have helped in documenting my artwork and have provided tips on how to represent myself as a Fine Artist.
PC: Why do you think displaying / packaging your work is important?
Lani: The only way to get exposure is to show your work. This leads you to making connections with those whom can offer you opportunities you didn't have before.
PC: Anything else you think students should know before putting their portfolio together?
Lani: Although it is an overwhelming task the Portfolio Center will help you step by step and encourage you along the way.
-----Lani was able to get dozens of photographs of her work by participating in Photo Doc Day. Graduating students needing professional documentation of their garments, products, fine art, and really any 3-D work or even headshots should plan to get it done at the next Photo Doc Day in mid-June during Portfolio Boot Camp.
Mark your calendar for Portfolio Boot Camp: Workshops & Production for New Grads to be held this June. We can't give you specifics on which professionals will be here or give you the exact times / dates of programs yet, BUT we can tell you that if you're graduating in May and still unsure of how to pull your work together then you should plan to attend.
During this week you’ll have the opportunity to receive feedback from professionals and tighten up your portfolio presentation through production services. More details coming soon about how you can shape up your body of work during Portfolio Boot Camp. Check back...and if you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and let us know you're graduating. We'll put you on our mailing list.
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.
Join reps from Crate & Barrel's local team on Tuesday, April 22 at 1PM as they share their insights and experiences regarding marketing to internal audiences. Crate & Barrel opened it's doors in 1962 as a family business. Fast forward 40 years. And did it ever go fast. Today's Crate & Barrel family has grown to 160 stores and over 7,000 associates nationwide. Open to all students.
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Seniors: Get your work online, in time for graduation. Attend one of the Portfolio Center's web site tutorial sessions during April 28-May 2 that will introduce you to Portfolio Web, Columbia’s free website publishing system. You’ll have the chance to set-up an account and we’ll show you sample sites that use text, images, video and audio to showcase portfolio work. This session will be hands-on so feel free to bring work samples with you.
Walk-ins welcome, but pre-registration is encouraged to ensure you get a seat. Sign-up by calling 312.344.7280. Open to seniors only.
Monday, April 28
10AM-12PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 921 - Art & Design Lab
4PM-6PM / 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Room 709 – TV Lab
Tuesday, April 29
10AM-12PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 921 - Art & Design Lab
12PM-2PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 307 - Portfolio Center / Portfolio Web walk-ins. Only for students who currently have accounts and need assistance.
4PM-6PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 419 – IAM Lab
Wednesday, April 30
10-Noon / 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Room 709 – TV Lab
4PM-6PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 419 – IAM Lab
Thursday, May 1
10AM-12PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 921 - Art & Design Lab
3PM-5PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 307 - Portfolio Center / Portfolio Web walk-ins. Only for students who currently have accounts and need assistance.
Friday, May 2
12PM - 2PM / 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Room 709 – TV Lab
Have an idea for the next great commercial but don't have the resources to get it made? The Portfolio Center, Art & Design and Marketing Communication departments are looking to turn great concepts into fully produced 30-second spots. Junior and senior advertising art and copywriting students are eligible to apply. And we'll foot the bill for production costs up to $1000.
Do we have your attention yet? Good. Here's what you need to know about the process:
Step 1: Visit the Spot Shot website for complete guidelines and application materials. EXTENDED DEADLINE is 5PM, Friday, April 18.
Step 2: Up to three concepts will be selected based on originality, clarity of idea and (production) practicality.
Step 3: Production teams will be selected to direct and shoot the commercials. Production will begin in June.
Questions? Contact Keesha Johnson, Portfolio Center Production Manager, kajohnson@colum.edu
Get Your Spot Shot is a collaboration between the Portfolio Center, the Art & Design, Marketing/Communications and Film & Video departments.
WHO: You + Your Portfolio Samples + Working Professionals
WHY: Feedback + Conversation + Networking
WHAT: Resumes + Business Cards + Websites
Graduating seniors and graduating grad students are invited to attend the events listed below that will host the kinds of arts & media professionals you hope to work with in the near future.
WHERE:
>Advertising & Design Showcase / 4PM to 7PM / Conaway Center 1st Floor, 1104 S. Wabash / Advertising Artists, Copywriters, Illustrators, Photographers, Marketing, PR, Motion Graphics, Interactive Arts & Media and Filmmakers
>Art Expo / 5PM to 8PM / At galleries across campus (tba) / Fine Artists including: Painters, Photographers, Book & Paper, Interactive, Sculptors and Visual Arts Managers
>Journalism Reception / 5PM to 8PM / J Department, 2nd Floor, 33 East Congress / Writers, Broadcast Journalists, and Photojournalists
>Film & Video Reception* / 5PM to 8PM / Film Row Cinema, 8th Floor, 1104 S Wabash / Producers, Directors, Cinematographers, Editors, and Screen Writers / *By invitation only.
>All Access Night Club* / 6PM to 10PM / Location TBA / Music Business: managers, promoters, journalists, photographers / *By invitation only.
>ASL / 4PM to 7PM / Ferguson Theater/Tour Center, 1st Floor, 600 S. Michigan / ASL graduating seniors
New info will be posted soon. Talk to your department’s Manifest Liaison for details. Do the Indu Twist.
En Prise Entertainment has a reputation for being on the cutting edge of the music scene. Co-owners Chess Hubbard and Matt DuFour, both tastemakers in their own rite, have been organizing, promoting and hosting successful, music-centric events in Chicago for the past few years. The pair--whom manage local troupe Office, Hollywood Holt, Life During Wartime Djs, and Tiger City-- will be on campus Tuesday, April 29th from 12PM-2PM to meet with AEMM, Marketing and PR students and give feedback on work samples and career goals. Juniors, seniors and December '07 graduates are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Louella St. Ville, Director of Education and Development, Crate & Barrel will be meeting with marketing and PR students to review portfolios on Friday, April 22 from 10AM-12PM. Crate & Barrel opened it's doors in 1962 as a family business. Fast forward 40 years. And did it ever go fast. Today's Crate & Barrel family has grown to 160 stores and over 7,000 associates nationwide. This is a great opportunity to discuss how to present your work. Juniors, seniors, grad students and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work or for more information. Limited spots available.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Want to find out some ways to increase your exposure as a performer? Attend Marketing the Performer on Friday, April 4 at 10AM. We'll discuss tips for creating effective publicity and how to attract others (besides your friends) to your work. 1st floor, 1104 S. Wabash.
Panel: Dennis Watkins [Director of Marketing, The House Theatre of Chicago], Denise Garrity [Publicity Director, Goodman Theater], Kyle Terry [Artistic Director, Dance Crash] and Chelsea Keenan [Marketing Director, The Next Theatre]
Moderated by: Chris Piatt [Theater Critic, Time Out Chicago]
And it happens at PerforMarket, Columbia College's only expo geared to help performing artists and performance art management students connect with professionals in their industry.
Be sure to stick around after this panel and mingle with several organizations during the Industry Expo from 10AM-2PM. This is your chance to find out about possible internships, get feedback on your resume or portfolio and receive general advice from performing arts professionals. And don't miss a special performance by musical group Napoleon at 1:15PM! Open to all students.
PerforMarket is sponsored by the College Advising Center and Portfolio Center.
The team from Edelman Multicultural is seeking a hard-working junior, senior, or graduate students with an enthusiastic, team-player attitude to serve as interns or trainees this summer in their Chicago office. On April 11 from 9AM-11AM reps from Edelman will meet with marketing and PR students who could be potential candidates for the internship program. The Intern and Trainee positions range from three to six months in duration. This position requires the candidate to be fluent in or have a strong knowledge of Spanish. Edelman is the world's largest independent public relations firm, with 2,000 employees in 45 offices worldwide.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
When thinking about posting video clips online it's important to know which formats are best suited for the system where your website is being hosted. Below is a list of the accepted video file formats that can be used with the Web Agent. Note: Video files must NOT exceed 30mb in file size. (Files that exceed the 30mb limit will not upload to your website)
Accepted File types: asf, asx, avi, divx, dv, dvx, m4v, mov, mp4, mpeg, mpg, qt, wmv, 3g2, 3gp, 3ivx and 3vx
Time Out Chicago Marketing Manager Eva Penar will be on campus Thursday, April 10 from 3PM to 5PM to review student work. The publication--which offers a fresh young perspective on the scenes of London, New York and Chicago--is looking for marketing and PR interns. Columbia College juniors, seniors, and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Come network with Columbia talent from all majors on Tuesday, March 11 from 3PM-8PM. The Student Programming Board is gathering various student organizations, individuals and even the Portfolio Center for a day (or rather evening) geared to celebrate young professionals. That means you.
There will be free food, speed networking, and motivational speeches given by Joe Roberts [Ecenter AEMM Director] and Rahim Fazel [Entrepreneur]. Location: Hokin Annex, 1st floor 623 S Wabash.
Contact SPB at spb@colum.edu or 312-344-7188 for more information.
This event is a collaboration between the Student Programming Board (SPB), Click, E-club and Portfolio Center.
Q: What happens when two Portfolio Center staff members make a bet to see who can book the most portfolio reviews for one day?
A: A whole lotta chances for students to get feedback on their work that's what. March 11, 2008, the day we've coined as Show Off Showdown, will bring seven local arts & media professionals onto campus for a day of reviews and in some cases intern scouting.
While we offer portfolio reviews for various majors throughout the semester and call the program "Show Off," we normally don't schedule 7 on one day. Come out and show us what you got.
Here is what's scheduled for March 11:
Show Off to 97.7 / 96.9 (The Drive)
Show Off to Taylor Castle, Photographer
Show Off to James Imbrogno, Photographer
Show Off to Callie Lipken, Photographer
Show Off to Midwest Teen Sex Show
Students should call 312-344-7280 to sign-up for an appointment. Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get juniors, seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Don't see a Show Off that interests you? No worries. Check out our program and events page to see more upcoming events. Or register with us and get notified via e-mail about reviews and sessions related to your industry.
Oh, by the way-- The score is David Lewis 4, Caroline Juhlin 3...but who's counting...
Journalism, marketing and AEMM students are invited to participate in a portfolio review with Alarm Magazine on Tuesday, March 11 from 12PM-2PM. Founded in 1995, ALARM Magazine is a bi-monthly collection of unique, inspiring, and astonishing stories from the independent music and art community. From the biggest names in new music to the outermost borders of the creative landscape, ALARM unites the most exciting artists to create a moving patchwork illustration of what is really happening in art and music.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Saatchi & Saatchi X’s Worldwide Creative Director Carlos Sanchez and Chicago-based Creative Director Matt Kuttan will be on campus Thursday, March 6 at 12:30PM to discuss with students a new concept called Shopper Marketing that agencies and marketers are raving about.
Shopper Marketing evaluates various shopping situations and finds ways to improve the consumer’s experience by designing interactive, easy to navigate environments using brand strategies.
Saatchi & Saatchi X is one of the pioneers of Shopper Marketing. With over 10 years of turning 'Shoppers into Buyers,' the company creates intuitive shopping environments that increase purchase behavior. Come find out how you can get in on this cutting edge trend.
Matt Kuttan will also stick around after the session to review student portfolios. Limited appointments available. Sign-up by calling 312-344-7280 to ensure you get in.
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Having spent two decades building, managing and inspiring both creative and multi-disciplined teams, Carlos now leads the creative vision for Saatchi & Saatchi X. Most recently, as Chief Marketing Officer at Shop Bistro, a multi-channeled shopping brand with global ambitions, Carlos was instrumental in shaping their brand for the future by creating an entertaining and universally appealing shopping experience for a global marketplace.
His creative career began as Senior Designer at the highly awarded Wolff Olins London, where he designed and implemented corporate identities, lead conceptual development and client presentations, and lead project teams and new business pitches. In the early 1990s, he joined a young start-up called Diefenbach Elkins as Design Director. His career continued to gain momentum when he joined Landor as Creative Director and was charged with creating, defining, and building a new corporate identity practice. He later cofounded St. Aubyn with a simple holistic approach: to create branding programs that are as strategically smart as they are creatively compelling. His next three years were spent as Executive Creative Director at Interbrand, where he championed and evolved the integration of strategy and creative, nurtured existing and new practices, and cultivated winning relationships within the Omnicom network.
He has been a catalyst for companies worldwide to define, express, and leverage who they are through their brands. Throughout his creative leadership career, Carlos managed corporate, consumer, and innovations branding for a roster of globally respected clients including AT&T, Ameritrade, eBay, CNN, GE, P&G, Timex, Heinz, J&J, 7UP, International Paper, Merck, and others.
Whether you just have an idea or already own a business – no matter what stage your business is at, the Arts Entrepreneurship Center (Ecenter) of the Columbia College Chicago AEMM Department, is here to help YOU! THE ECENTER IS YOUR ONE-STOP RESOURCE!
We are pleased to announce that the Ecenter now has a business specialist to provide technical assistance FREE to all Columbia students seeking self-employment in the Arts. You will gain valuable business advice, access to business plan reviews, and guidance to help you create a business plan.
Consultations are by appointment only, Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 am – 3pm.
Call 312-344-8620 for an appointment or e-mail ecenter@colum.edu for more information.
[CANCELLED: Why? Because not many of you signed-up...no sign-ups, no Show Off]
Midwest Teen Sex Show is a comedic, semi-educational video podcast featured bi-monthly. MWTSS has 65000 subscribers through iTunes making it one of the most popular podcast on the market. Following a recent swell in media attention the creators are looking to expand and need interns with production, marketing, design and PR know-how. If you have been looking for a great ground floor company to get in with...this could be your chance. Sign-up to meet with the creators on Tuesday, March 11 between 2PM and 4PM. Columbia College juniors, seniors, and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Pitchfork Media, Inc. will be on campus scouting for interns and giving feedback to AEMM, marketing and PR majors. Pitchfork Media is the self proclaimed home of the gratuitously in-depth record review. Self-motivated individuals who would like more information about this internship should sign-up for an appointment between 10AM-12PM.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
UR Chicago and En Prise Entertainment will meet with design, marketing and management students on Wednesday, March 5 from 10AM to Noon to give feedback on student work and scout for interns. UR Chicago is looking for a design intern and En Prise Entertainment (which owns UR) is looking for a marketing/AEMM intern. Both interns would work for both entities. In case you don’t know UR Chicago is a free monthly arts, lifestyle and entertainment magazine based in the Windy City. En Prise Entertainment has a reputation for being on the cutting edge of the music scene and organizes, promotes, and hosts successful, music-centric events in Chicago.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
First impressions count! Be sure you are in the know about best practices for creating your resume and portfolio package. On Tuesday, March 4 at noon Multicultural Affairs is teaming up with the Portfolio Center and Writing Center to cover some basic things to consider about putting together job search must have materials. You'll also be introduced to on-campus resources that can assist you.
Open to all Columbia College students. Sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs with presentations from the College Advising Center and the Portfolio Center.
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Business Card Day is a chance for juniors, seniors, recent grads & grad students to get hooked up with a graphic designer who will create a knock-out business card design especially for you. You can’t beat the price (it’s free) and professional quality is guaranteed. Network in style.
To participate Wednesday, March 5 you MUST RSVP by February 25 Call 312-344-7280 to RSVP. All RSVPs will be asked to submit additional information about their project in order to participate.
Next business card design dates:
Wednesday, April 2 – Register by March 24
Wednesday, May 7 – Register by April 28
Brought to you by The Portfolio Center
Whether you’re creating a design identity for yourself or for a client; effective branding is a key element to having your work remembered. On Wednesday, February 27 at 6PM several design professionals will discuss how to assemble a portfolio that showcases your best branding work. Open to all Columbia College students and alumni.
Guests: Dave Weik [Co-founder and Creative Director at Studio UKV]; Bill Ferdinand [Founder, zun partners]; and Nick Staal [Upshift Creative]
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Cynthia McVicker, creative recruiter for Draft FCB, will visit the Portfolio Center on Monday, February 25 at 3:30PM for a discussion about her process of reviewing advertising portfolios. She’ll discuss do’s and don’ts that any student serious about pursuing creative ad work should know about submitting portfolios and standing out from the pile. Open to all Columbia College students and alumni.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
This session has been CANCELED. Be sure to join us for Ad Portfolios: A Recruiter's Perspective on Monday, Feb. 25.
Come hear recruiters speak on Tuesday, February 19 at 4:30PM about what they look for in advertising art and copywriting portfolios. This is your opportunity to hear how to use your portfolio to get the attention of folks who could potentially hire you. Open to all Columbia College students and alumni.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Sundance Institute has selected Columbia College to participate in a special research initiative that allows students to help influence and generate ideas for new, meaningful programming. Sundance will be on campus on Wednesday January 20 to conduct a focus group with undergraduate non-film majors at 3PM. The session will be approximately 90 minutes and all students participating will be asked to fill out a quick multiple choice survey prior to the session (sent via email after confirmed registration). Space is limited to 12 people. Students participating in the focus group will receive a $15 iTunes Gift Card, Chicago-style pizza, and refreshments. Interested in participating? Call 312-344-7280 by February 13 to reserve a spot.
The Sundance Institute, a national non-profit, most popular for the annual Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah also provides a series of professional training labs for artists (screenwriting, directing, playwriting, documentary film editing and music composition for film), programs for public audiences in New York and Utah, over $1M in direct artist grants as well as extensive free online content.
The American Advertising Federation (AAF) is bringing their 2008 Mosaic Career Fair to Chicago on Thursday, February 21 at DePaul University. This event gives students the opportunity to learn about jobs and internships from recruiters representing some of the nation's top advertising, marketing and communications businesses. Some of the programs attendees can participate in are career development workshops, panel discussions and one-on-one resume & portfolio critiques. The registration deadline is February 14.
Chicago Women in Publishing (CWIP) presents "Contracts for Freelancers" on Wednesday, February 20 from 6–8:30PM. A panel of experienced freelancers will provide tips on how to negotiate the contract you need and want. The panel will include Mary Beth Klatt, who writes about fashion, design, and architecture and has served on the American Society of Journalists and Authors contracts committee.
Location: National-Louis University, 122 S. Michigan Ave. Cost for CWIP events is usually $10 with a student i.d. Don't take our word for it though, check their website for costs and registration details.
One of the most misconceptions regarding purchasing and registering a domain name is that a majority of people think that they need to have a website first before they can even purchase and register a domain name.
The reality is NO and it is highly recommended that you purchase and register your domain name first. The reason that this is recommended is that by the time a website is done being designed and launched onto the Internet Super Highway there is a very good chance that someone else already purchased and registered the domain name you wanted regardless on how unique the domain name might be.
For tips on choosing a good domain name read an article written by Christopher Heng of sitewizard.com
Congratulations to the 2008 Albert P. Weisman Award recipients. Over thirty-five undergraduate and graduate students will be awarded funding for projects in areas that include AEMM, dance, fashion design, film, interdisciplinary arts, photography and theater.
2008 Recipients:
Matt Austin, Brooke Berger, Jean Bevier, Margaret Rose Breffeilh, Rachel Buck, James Cackovic, Asher Danzige, Kirstin Demer, Stephen DeSantis, Loni Diep, Dalila Droege, Kaelyn Garcia, Brandon Graham, Niki Grangruth, Allison Grant, Jessica Hannah, Yu-Ting Hsueh, Sean Jourdan, Joseph Lappie, Lisa Lindvay, Zach Litwack, Curtis Mann, Nick Martin, Molly Mae McCarty, Emily Miller, Angel Nava, Heyjin Oh, Kaitlyn Parks, Jason Reblando, Brian Schodor, Abraham Velazquez Tello, Eric Turner, Terttu Uibopuu, Marie Ullrich, Sarah Louise Walker, and Kameishia Wooten
Brian Grabiner is a Program Manager for Mess Marketing. Drawing on a love of independent music and media and over ten years of event production and execution experience, Brian works as a marketing professional with an emphasis on these disciplines. He creates relationships with bands, labels, promoters, and venues and uses these resources to select and acquire content for various marketing programs. Brian works with an array of different clients across many product categories and helps these brands accentuate their position in the market and promote their products using independent music as a touch point with their consumers. He actively plans events/concerts in Chicago and beyond. Brian has worked on several International Film Festivals, at an independent television station, and has been producing concerts for over a decade and is excited to share on how those experiences have shaped his role as a marketing professional.
Availability: Varies
All sessions are by appointment only. If you're interested to meet with an Industry Expert, and have already registered with us, call 312.344.7280 to schedule an appointment. If not, complete the registration form and be sure to select the Industry Expert option. Easy.
Q: Whoa there. What are Industry Expert sessions again?
A: It's a service provided by the Portfolio Center that pairs students with working professionals in their field. An Industry Expert helps you understand what materials to put in a portfolio (and what to leave out), how to package and present your work, and how you'll know when it's ready for prime time.
Ben Fasman is a staff writer, editor-at-large and marketing consultant at Stop Smiling magazine. He has had a monthly section on the Economist.com where he reports on Chicago arts and politics for the past year, and his writing has been featured in other magazines such as XLR8R and Juxtapoz, as well as various art and culture websites. He is also a record collector and DJ, having played everywhere from London to LA to NYC and everywhere in between, and has appeared on NPR on a number of occasions talking about DJing. He moved to New York to become the chief research assistant for a best-selling release on Testify Books, "Where'd You Get Those?" and dearly misses living Brooklyn after being in Chicago for the past four years.
Availability: Varies
All sessions are by appointment only. If you're interested to meet with an Industry Expert call 312.369.7280 for details.
Q: Whoa there. What are Industry Expert sessions again?
A: It's a service provided by the Portfolio Center that pairs students with working professionals in their field. An Industry Expert helps you understand what materials to put in a portfolio (and what to leave out), how to package and present your work, and how you'll know when it's ready for prime time.
Eva Penar is the Manager of Public Relations for The Chicago Community Trust. Before joining the Trust, Eva Penar was the marketing manager/events, promotions and publicity for Time Out Chicago. She was hired on as part of the original marketing team to handle the launch of the publication in a new market. Penar also worked at the National Museum of Mexican Art for five years as their marketing/media director. During her tenure there, she worked on the “Gelman Collection: Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera and 20th Century Mexican Art” exhibition and an expansion of the MFACM that tripled its size. Her hard work was recognized at the Chicago Emmy ceremony in 2004, where a public-service announcement that she coordinated with Univision Channel 66 won an award. She’s also worked as a communications associate for the Chicago Millennium Celebration, Department of Cultural Affairs for the City of Chicago. Penar is fluent in Polish and Spanish.
Availability: Weekdays anytime.
All sessions are by appointment only. If you're interested to meet with an Industry Expert call 312.369.7280 for details.
Q: Whoa there. What are Industry Expert sessions again?
A: It's a service provided by the Portfolio Center that pairs students with working professionals in their field. An Industry Expert helps you understand what materials to put in a portfolio (and what to leave out), how to package and present your work, and how you'll know when it's ready for prime time.
What's the line between creative presentation and gimmick? During this session we'll explore answers to that question and discuss how to create a marketing identity for your body of work that attracts attention in a good way. Part of the Spring Weeks of Welcome. Open to all Columbia College students.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Back-up your talent with a digital copy of your work. On Tuesday, January 29 at 3PM we'll discuss best practices for documenting, archiving and formatting work for inclusion in a portfolio. Part of the Spring Weeks of Welcome. Open to all Columbia College students.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
It's never too early to think about how to present your body of work. On Monday, January 28 at 3PM we'll introduce you to portfolio formats, resources and ways students in various majors can showcase their talent in a portfolio. Part of the Spring Weeks of Welcome. Open to all Columbia College students.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Congratulations to Columbia's student winners of the 2007 Ava Awards!!! Two of the spec commercials produced as part of our first “Get Your Spot Shot” competition won top places in the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals' student category.
Jennifer Crider’s “Levi’s Pure Devotion” won a platinum Ava directed by Jim Kalfas, shot by Fred Miller and edited by Casey Lock. “Ecko Life”, conceptualized by Andy Walensa, garnered a gold Ava. Cezil Reed directed, Terry Zumalt shot, and Ai Lene Chor edited the piece.
Spot Shot was a collaborative project between Columbia College’s Art & Design and Marketing Communication Departments in conjunction with the Portfolio Center. Advertising art and copywriting students were invited to submit their ideas along with a script and storyboards. The top three concepts were selected and then directed by film students. Students interested in participating in Spot Shot should be on the look out for the spring 2008 deadline. Check out the winning videos below.
by Emily Easton
So, we’ll admit that the connection between portfolios and graduate school applications for programs outside of the arts is tenuous at best, but hear us out: both require you to present your work professionally and succinctly- and most students have the exact same questions about both their applications and their portfolios: what should I put in and what are people looking for?
A graduate application for a non-arts program usually includes GRE scores, a writing sample, a transcript, recommendation letters and a statement of purpose. Daunting, yes, but grad school applications are daunting for a reason; graduate study is a major league commitment. If you can’t handle the ap, you’re not ready for grad school.
Before your stomach hits the floor, consider the following advice from Chad Cyrenne of the University of Chicago’s Master of Arts in the Social Sciences Program. He reviews both M.A. and PhD applications so he knows what that side of the table is looking for.
-GRE scores are not the final word on your application, but they are an important component. Be as ready as you can to take the test well the first time around as all scores are reported to the program you’re applying to. (While you do have the option to retake the GREs, your early scores don’t just disappear.) Don’t completely disregard the quantitative section either- just because you’re applying to a writing-based program doesn’t mean they won’t look at how good you are at math.
-A writing sample should be a maximum of 35 double-spaced pages. Proofread, proofread, proofread. Proofread.
-Make sure to have your transcripts sent in a timely fashion by your college or university. A late transcript is a late application and late applications are not considered. If you have some grade dips, that’s not the end of the world. If you can show you improved throughout your undergraduate career, most programs will take that into consideration.
-Make sure your recommendations come from people familiar with your work- preferably your academic work. If you have been working in a field related to your anticipated course of study, professional recommendations can be a strong asset as well, but be sure to have at least one from your undergraduate institution. Some students ask for these letters soon after they graduate and store them online at interfolio.com. If you have been out of school for a while, be sure to allow time to discuss or even meet with your former professors to make sure they can write a strong letter.
-A statement of purpose should address: the intellectual puzzle you hope to tackle, what relevant experience (academic and professional) you bring to the subject matter and why the particular department would be the ideal place to undertake your research. Identify key faculty members who have written in your field and mention them by name. Include articles or books they have written that relate to your research. This is not the time to offer a chapter of your autobiography; this is the space to show what you’re going to do with the opportunity you’re asking for and why you deserve to do it with their specific program.
If this seems like a lot of work, we’ve gotten our message across: it is. But, thousands of students find success every year and there’s no reason you can’t; especially if you’re properly prepared.
Emily Easton is Senior Program Development Officer at University of Chicago
There are tons of portfolio resources available to students but where should you start? Well, that depends on the level of your work. We've added a Quick Start guide to our website to help students navigate their way to Portfolio Center programs and resources that they're eligible for. Next, register with our center (if you haven't already) and you'll receive occasional e-mails from us announcing events that you can participate in. Also be sure to check out your industry page to view more information about portfolio issues relevant to you.
The Portfolio Center created a Portfolio Wiki as a means for students to research common terms used in arts & media industries. With currently over 90 articles, this wiki aims to educate those assembling and revising their own creative portfolios, as well as serve a exchange point for information about creative portfolios from educators, professionals and artists.
The information is divided into three main sections, with categories within. Information is offered on portfolios depending on the type of media they serve, a general listing of terms and organizations that offer help building and revising a portfolio and an admissions portfolio section, which details arts and media programs around the world and what they expect in an application portfolio.
If you're unsure what a portfolio for your industry is, the Portfolio Wiki is a great place to get the correct information. Check it out.
Are you graduating this year? Congrats! Next step job hunting, right? Wrong. Shape up your body of work first. Take this quick survey (it really is quick) and let the Portfolio Center know ways in which we can help you build your portfolio.
Then, mark your calendar for Portfolio Boot Camp: Reviews, Workshops & Production for New Grads to be held January 21-25. During this week you’ll have the opportunity to receive feedback from professionals and tighten up your portfolio presentation through production services. But, be sure to complete the survey so that we can tailor the events specifically to you.
With 12 locations worldwide, including Chicago, Miami Ad School is known and well-respected for turning out advertising folks with stellar portfolio books. On Friday, November 16 from 10AM to Noon Denise Esterkyn, Director of Miami Ad School’s San Francisco location, will review advertising, ad art and copywriting portfolios. Seniors and spring ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
If you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and make sure you select the 'Show Off' option. Then, call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
With 12 locations worldwide, including Chicago, Miami Ad School is known and well-respected for cranking out advertising folks with stellar portfolio books. On Thursday, November 15 at 3:30, Denise Esterkyn, Director of Miami Ad School’s San Francisco location, will provide insight on what qualifies as a strong advertising portfolio. She’ll also discuss the school’s unique portfolio development programs in art direction, copywriting, graphic design, account planning and fashion photography. Location: 623 S. Wabash, Room 311 (near but not in the Portfolio Center)
Denise will also stick around campus and conduct portfolio reviews with advertising students on Friday, November 16 from 10AM-Noon
Creative Recruiter Allison Sagehorn with Manuela Guidi LLC will review portfolios for students preparing for ad-creative careers on Tuesday, November 20 from 1:30-4:30PM. Manuela Guidi is one of the most respected names in the Midwest advertising community. The firm sources creative talent for many of the areas biggest and most successful agencies. Open to seniors and spring ’07 grads with advertising art, copywriting and web design portfolios.
If you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and make sure you select the 'Show Off' option. Then, call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Whether you’re creating a design identity for yourself or for a client; effective branding is a key element to having your work remembered. On Tuesday, November 13 at 9AM we’ll engage several professionals in a discussion about how to assemble a portfolio that showcases your best branding. Open to all Columbia College students and alumni.
Guests: Peter Zapf, Principal/Writer at Flow Creative and Dave Weik, co-founder and Creative Director of Studio UKV
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, Room 307
The Producer's Guild of Columbia College (PGC) presents the First Annual Film Expo "Behind the Scenes" on Tuesday, October 30 from Noon to 3PM in the Conaway Center at 1104 S. Wabash.
This expo will provide an interactive look at the many stages of filmmaking and provide attendees with resources and tools to help them better prepare for production work.
PGC invites all members of the Columbia College community to attend and experience the exhibits, network with fellow students, and celebrate the many talents involved in film production.
Oh, and your friends from the Portfolio Center will be there as well with sample film packages and press kits so be sure to stop by our table and say hi.
Expand your Rolodex as Chicago Women in Publishing presents Speed Networking. It’s a great and easy way to make many new contacts in one evening. And it can only help you if you happen to be looking for a job or internship.
Bring your business cards and “elevator speech” a 30-second pitch of who you are and what you do. The facilitator will be Stacy Hope Jones, director of business development and marketing for Shakespeare Squared.
When: Wednesday, October 17, 6:00–8:30 p.m.
Where: National-Louis University, Room 4012-14, 122 S. Michigan Ave.
Cost for students with ID is $10
You can register online at www.cwip.org/events.htm by Monday, October 15, call 773-508-0351 x2, or walk-ins are welcome with cash or check only.
Every year One Club sponsors it's One Show Awards honoring advertising's best work in print, radio, television, design, interactive and new media. And this year, that best work is coming here, to Columbia.
On Monday, October 15th, head over to the Conaway Center for the One Club Reception at 5:30-7:00 P.M. This is the only time you'll be able to see the winning television ads, plus you can mix & mingle with the advertising and marketing professionals who come out for this. They want to see the excellent work worthy of these awards- and you should too.
Booked on Monday? Then make a point to visit the Conaway October 9th through the 18th; the print ads will remain on display.
Could you use additional funding to finish your masterpiece? Apply for the Albert P. Weisman Award. This matching grant provides funding, up to $4000, to a limited number of undergraduate (60 credit hours or more) and graduate students in a variety of media who seek financial assistance in order to finish a significant project.
The application deadline is Thursday, November 29 and we’ve scheduled four information sessions to help you prepare. This is your opportunity to get your questions answered about the application process and receive tips on how to submit a solid proposal for the Award. AND, if you think this award isn't applicable to your major or interests that's an even better reason to attend an information session so we can tell you that you're wrong-- I mean give you some ideas about possible uses for the funding.
Information Sessions:
Thursday, October 4 @ 2PM
Tuesday, October 30 @ 10AM
Thursday, November 1 @ 3PM
Wednesday, November 7 @ 6PM
All sessions will be held in the Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307.
Sponsorship:
The Albert P. Weisman Award is made possible by the generosity of Tony Weisman, the Weisman committee and the many friends of Albert P. Weisman who donate both time and resources to make this award possible.
Back by ever popular demand: Business Card Day will take place on Tuesday, October 23. We’ll pair you with a graphic designer who will create a professional card for you-- for free (printing not included). By the time you read this, spots may already be full. That’s because you aren't the only student who knows that a business card is an essential networking tool.
No worries though; we’ve scheduled the final Business Card Day of the semester for Thursday, November 8. Call us at 312.344.7280 to make an appointment. Current Columbia College students and May '07 graduates and eligible to participate.
We've also written some basic business card guidelines as a reference if you're unsure what information to put on your card.
You may have your opinions about what merits a strong, captivating advertising portfolio but the professionals have the experience. Thursday, September 27 at 3:30PM you’ll have the opportunity to hear Jessica Altus, Recruiting Coordinator, Leo Burnett and Susie Steinberg, Creative Recruiter, DDB discuss everything from portfolio content, delivery formats, branding and follow-up inquiries. Between the two of them, Jessica and Susie receive more portfolio submissions than you can imagine. Come find out how to make your ad art and copyrighting work stand out from the pile.
Open to all Columbia College students and alumni.
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, Room 307
