How to be an expert in IT?

How much time will it take to become a grafix designer and multimedia expert?

• i am a student doing masters is biotechnology. i wanted to become an expert grafix designer, video editor and multimedia pro. I have good computer basic skills but i am not an expert in any field now i have started learning grafix designing from a private institute. i would like to know how much time will it take to become an expert in the said fields also please advice what programms should i master apart from ADOBE PREMIER, 3D MAX, FINAL CUT, AUTOCAD. any other than these which will help me in the said field??? THANKS

• Answer:

  well it depends where you want to go with it. I am a graphic designer for a wide-format printing and signage company, and honestly we get applicants from graphic design schools who don't know the first thing about actually designing an appealing layout for someone to read, that achieves a desired purpose... instead they are centered more around overly stylized contemporary designs that look good on a computer screen with a captive viewer at a specified range, focusing on artistic or abstract design rather than functionality. anyway, if you are planning to be one of those designers who simply gets their proof signed and passes the file along to the next person, stay in school. if you are planning on actually being able to create a layout or design, and to be able to stand by it from concept to production and completion without seeing your design re-done by pre-press & production because you don't know what you're doing, then you will probably have to try and get an internship or job at an actual design and production firm of some sort to get the right experience.