Below is my start-of-term list of Learning Goals (bold, bullet points), and my end-of-term reflections on them (non-bold) :

• To overcome challenges in learning to use technological tools which are outside of my comfort zone.

This is definitely something that happened. I overcame many challenges in learning to use Adobe Illustrator and In Design, most of the time through the rewarding yet painstaking process of trial and error. I look forward to future challenges that will come with new design projects, and new software and programs.

• To fearlessly admit confusions and ask questions.

For the most part, I think I did a good job of asking questions, although, I always hold back a little. Something that really helped me was the fact that many of my peers were experts in the programs we used. It was very useful to have multiple people to consult when faced with confusion and difficulties, and allowed me to gain a wider variety of skills and perspectives.

• To increase my awareness of real-life examples of how technological tools are being used in the field.

I mean…yes, and no. I learned how to use Adobe Illustrator and In Design as a tool for building an organizational brand. I would have liked to have seen more examples of how this is handled in the professional world. That being said, I think this course was a great introduction.

• To collaborate and exchange ideas with peers and faculty about in-class (as well as future) projects.

Yes, this was absolutely accomplished. I now have many ideas brewing in my head for projects I’d like to pursue during the spring term iteration of this course.

• To develop a strong, critical eye for marketing images and strategies.

This was the greatest achievement of all my learning goals: developing a critical eye for branding. There was not a focus on marketing strategy specifically, but I think that area is up next for exploration in winter term. I’ve loved how this class has brought my awareness to the use of logos and branding in the real world- I can’t stop thinking about it!

• To find and embrace my own style/methods as a designer and marketer.

Hmm…nope, haven’t quite arrived yet with this one. I have started to foster an appreciation for my own aesthetic, but most of the term my attention was on appreciating the design skills of my peers, and coming up with ways to bring some of the strengths of their designs into my own. I still have some “embracing” to do, but it’s been a great learning experience to recognize the differences in aesthetic among our cohort.

• To read research and theories of marketing and design that extend beyond the syllabus.

I did not find the time to read much beyond what was dictated in our syllabus. But I have begun to search for more academic material on this subject!

• To begin conversations with peers and faculty about professional opportunities in the area of marketing.

I’m currently acting as a marketing intern for the Hult, which has been a fascinating experience so far. Besides this, I have not looked into professional marketing opportunities.

• To explore ways of combining skills learned in this class to my other areas of interest.

I think that I have naturally, and indirectly, begun to do this. I’ve found that some of the skills we’ve honed in this class are extremely relevant to other aspects of my studies, and in general, it has improved my ability to communicate with images, and to play with visual storytelling.