What exactly does a graphic designer do?

What would help me at this point to become a Graphic Designer?

• I am getting a degree in Art Design with a Digital Graphics emphasis from California State University Dominguez Hills with the intentions of becoming a Graphic Designer. I am worried that without specific specialized training in Graphic Design finding work will be impossible. What could I do to increase my chances of becoming successful in the field of Graphic Design? What computer programs should I learn that will aid me in my quest of becoming a Graphic Designer?

• Answer:

  Well, Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator are the core programs designers use. But knowing that software doesn't make you a good designer any more than knowing how to use Microsoft Word will make you a good writer. They're just tools, and without knowing what makes a design successful, you'll end up being a mediocre designer. And in that case, all the software in the world is just going to make your mediocre designs come out faster. I don't know how far along you are in your degree but you should be learning these programs in school anyways as part of the program. Remember this though. Your portfolio is what will get you your jobs, not your degree title. Employers know that different school have different titles for what is essentially the same degree. Graphic Design, Digital Arts, Communication Arts....for the most part they all amount to the same thing, and while it's good to have a degree to back you up, your work is what you'll be judged on. Think of it like this, a degree isn't necessary to get a graphic design job, a good portfolio is.....but a graphic design degree is the best way to get a good portfolio. I think you'll on the right track. Your degree sounds good and the emphasis to right on. The only other thing I can offer you as far as advice is to not cut corners on the projects you get in class, because once you get out of school, those all the only things you'll have to show employers to convince them to hire you. Best of luck