A Timeline for High School Students Interested in Graphic Design and Animal Science Fields (Guest Post)
Written by Cynthia, Platt College
Choosing a career path is one of the most significant decisions a high school student can make. Whether you’re drawn to creativity or science, fields like Graphic Design or Animal Science can offer rewarding careers.
But when should you start preparing for college?
Let’s break down a realistic timeline to get you ready for these programs, with practical steps and real-life insights for students pursuing careers in Graphic Design College and Veterinary Technology.
Freshman Year: Discover Your Passion
The first year of high school is a great time to start exploring your interests. Whether you're inclined towards the arts or fascinated by biology, this is the perfect moment to try different classes and activities.
Consider enrolling in art classes, biology, or animal science courses if your school offers them. While it might seem early to think about college, this is the time to build a strong academic foundation.
Real-life tip: I remember meeting a friend in high school who loved animals and biology. By joining the animal science club in her freshman year, she started exploring potential career paths early. That experience helped her confirm her interest in veterinary science.
For aspiring graphic designers, this is a great time to start creating a portfolio. While these early projects might not make it into your final portfolio, getting practice and refining your skills is crucial.
Sophomore Year: Build on Your Interests
Now that you’ve identified your interests, it’s time to dive deeper. Continue taking relevant courses and join extracurricular activities that align with your potential major. For example, students eyeing a Graphic Design Collegecan join the yearbook committee or take graphic design-related electives. Those interested in Veterinary Technology should consider volunteering at animal shelters or getting involved in science fairs.
Sophomore year is also an ideal time to start learning specific software. For aspiring graphic designers, mastering programs like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator can give you a head start. Meanwhile, students interested in Veterinary Technology could look into summer internships or volunteer opportunities at veterinary clinics.
Real-life tip: A close friend of mine who wanted to pursue graphic design spent her sophomore summer learning Adobe Illustrator. By the time she applied to college, she already had a strong portfolio showcasing her design skills. Similarly, a classmate of mine interested in veterinary science volunteered at an animal hospital, gaining hands-on experience before even setting foot in college.
Junior Year: Get Serious About College Planning
Junior year is critical. This is when college begins to feel more real, and preparations need to intensify. Start researching colleges that offer programs in Graphic Design, Veterinary Technology, and other related fields. Understand the application requirements and what schools are looking for.
For students eyeing a Graphic Design College, focus on refining your portfolio. Take on creative projects that showcase your unique style. Schools will be looking for originality and technical proficiency. At this stage, online portfolios and websites like Behance can help display your work.
Meanwhile, students interested in Veterinary Technology should focus on gathering relevant experience. This could mean shadowing veterinarians, volunteering at clinics, or even participating in pre-college programs related to animal science.
At this point, visiting campuses (either in person or virtually) can help you get a feel for which school aligns with your career goals. Remember, many colleges offer specialized programs not only in Graphic Design or Veterinary Technology but also in related fields like Biology, Environmental Science, or Bioengineering.
Senior Year: The Finish Line
Your senior year is all about putting it all together. It’s application time! Be sure to stay organized, keeping track of deadlines and requirements for each college you're interested in.
For Graphic Design College applications, perfect your portfolio and seek feedback from teachers or professionals. Polish your college essays and make sure your application reflects your passion for design.
Students interested in Veterinary Technology will need to ensure they meet any science prerequisites, such as biology or chemistry. This is also the time to highlight all the hands-on experience you’ve accumulated. Whether it's through volunteering, internships, or pre-college programs, make sure your application stands out by showcasing your dedication to animal science.
Preparing for College: Practical Steps for All Fields
No matter which path you choose, certain preparations are universal. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps to take throughout high school that will help, whether you’re interested in Graphic Design, Veterinary Technology, or even other programs like Environmental Science:
Stay Academically Strong: Colleges will look at your overall performance. Keep your grades up, especially in subjects related to your major.
Gather Experience: Internships, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities related to your field will give you a competitive edge.
Take SAT/ACT Prep Seriously: Many colleges require standardized test scores. Prepare for these exams well in advance.
Develop a Portfolio (for Design Students): Whether you’re applying to a Graphic Design College or an art-related program, your portfolio will be crucial. Continuously work on projects and seek feedback.
Get Letters of Recommendation: Cultivate relationships with teachers or mentors who can vouch for your passion and work ethic.
Stay Organized: Create a timeline of application deadlines and requirements. Missing a deadline can disqualify you from the school of your dreams.
The Road Ahead: Opportunities Beyond College
Preparing for college doesn’t just stop at applications. Think ahead to the career opportunities that await you in these fields.
In Graphic Design, you might find yourself working with marketing firms, media companies, or even as a freelance designer. Building a network through internships and freelance work during college can set you up for success after graduation. Many successful designers begin their careers by working on small projects and building up a client base.
On the other hand, Veterinary Technology is a field that offers a wide range of career paths. You could work in animal hospitals, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or even pursue specialized roles in animal behavior or research. Much like graphic design, gaining hands-on experience through internships and networking will be key to finding your place in the industry.
In both cases, your success will be largely shaped by the experiences you gather along the way. College is just the beginning of your journey.
Conclusion: Start Early and Stay Focused
If you’re serious about pursuing a career in Graphic Design or Veterinary Technology, preparation is everything. Starting early will give you the skills, experiences, and confidence needed to thrive in college and beyond.
By the time you're ready to apply to a Graphic Design College or a Veterinary Technology program, you’ll have built a strong foundation that showcases your passion and dedication.
With the right preparation, you’ll not only get into the school of your choice but also set the stage for a fulfilling career in your chosen field.
