I have a passion for Graphic Designs, and the job I do always gives me satisfaction that I am being paid for what I love doing. Moreover, the fact that I am assisting in passing news and information to people always makes me feel like I found my calling. Ideally, graphic designs are meant to create an impression or communicate something to people, and being in the journalism industry is an icing on the cake.
One unique thing about my job is the assumption by other people seeking similar careers that one does not need to study journalism in order to be a computer graphic designer for a newspaper company. In my first days of employment, I realized that were it not for my journalism training, there are so many mistakes I would have made in such a very sensitive industry.
While in college, I applied for attachment training at “The True Story Ltd.” It was then that the company noticed my talent in graphic design. After completing my studies, I decided to try out applying for a job at the company. Fortunately for me, my talent and previous track record while on attachment earned me a job. If I would rewind the hands of time and tried a different avenue for employment, I wouldn’t do it any better.
Experience is the best teacher, and there are many things I have learned through this teacher. One day I made political satire through the cartoon column, only to be sued later for defamation. In short, what I can tell you is that there is a very thin line between satire and infringing on someone’s rights when you are in the journalism industry, and you must know how to represent your facts right, whether graphically or in written.
Comparing my school life and work life, all I can say is that the latter has taught me what “being practical” means. Book principles do not always apply in the job market. More often, I am forced to think laterally.
One of the strangest things to happen to me was having to stand in a court of law on charges of defamation for doing something I love –graphic design. I can tell you, news is sometimes strange!
I wake up every morning to go for work for two reasons, one is that I need the money, and two, I love graphic designs. I felt so happy when I was editing the images for inauguration of America’s current president to be printed in the daily for the whole world to see. What a great feeling it was!
My major challenge is working to meet deadlines. It can be stressing to work under pressure in the journalism industry.
My job is a bit stressful and sometimes the only consolation is in the passion I have for graphic designing. This sometimes puts a lot of pressure on my private life. The only time I get to rest satisfactorily is when I am on work leave.
My salary is approximately $1100 per month. Money is never enough for any human being, but I can still maintain happy lifestyle with this salary.
I only have two vacations per year, each lasting two weeks. I would prefer everyday to be a holiday, but that is not realistic!
When I was hired in this field, I had a university degree qualification. Before that, I had tried searching for the same job with a diploma certificate to no avail. In this field, concentration, dedication and keenness have helped me succeed.
If one wants to take up this career line, all I can tell them is “develop passion for it.” It hasn’t been merely a walk in the park for me.
Five years from now? I would love to own my own news line firm, doing what I love and making money.
