I'm new, I'd like some advices!

[static haven]

Hey everyone! (I'm 21 Years old).

I'm just starting my journey into graphic design — I recently switched from health science major to fine arts (BAF) graphic design. I've had a long-time interest in editing (mainly in After Effects), which made me want to dive deeper into the creative side, especially with Adobe programs.

I’ve completed some courses in Illustrator and Photoshop, and I’ve been trying out TikTok-inspired designs to get more hands-on practice. My GOALS currently is building my portfolio and hopefully landing an internship this summer.

That said, I’m feeling kind of stuck creatively — I keep overthinking every idea and end up doing nothing. I’d love any advice you guys have on staying motivated, finding inspiration, building a strong portfolio, or just coming up with good design project ideas. Anything helps, and I really appreciate it!

[past kestrel]

I am not sure I can provide much in that way, but something is sure, is that, unless you have a background in arts (very broadly) the mistake most beginners make is to concentrate on the software and not on the concepts.

So, once you've learned how Illustrator and Photoshop work, you need to take courses, have an interest or work generally on graphic design as a discipline instead of the know-how.

It's really things you won't find in short projects on TikTok, but in long articles, books and documentaries. Study the history of graphic design, study the principles. Graphic design is like architecture, you can be the best at Sketch, but if you don't know how concrete react under pressure (as an engineer) you will either build cranky buildings, or forever be an artworker who will need an architect to operate.

I would redirect you to the Adobe carreer Discord Channel

https://discord.com/invite/acc

See what a uni is offering, for example this
https://www.shillingtoneducation.com/
and you'll see that very little time is devoted to learning the software. You can do that on your free time.
Check other institutions, study their programme.

Books like that are very useful
https://www.counter-print.co.uk/products/the-graphic-design-bible

Ultimately, you need to buy a notebook and a pencil 😉
That's where your ideas will take form.

[static haven]

Thank you so much for this advice, I understand that I lack the concept of art in general rather than knowing the mechanics of the software. Thank you again!!

[past kestrel]

No problem, feel free to subscribe to the Careers channels, it will be very useful.

[rare cove]

Also worth trolling around in behance for inspiration.