HOW TO HAVE A CAREER WITHOUT GOING TO UNIVERSITY

Strohacker Design School principal and creative director Bill Strohacker has advice for those who feel university is not the right path for them.

Bill has worked in design and education for the past 25 years as a creative director and designer/educator – initially in publishing as a graphic designer for EMAP where he designed for the iconic Smash Hits magazine.

Having also worked as a lecturer and teacher from foundation to degree level, Bill now works with a host of renowned graphic designers that make up the dedicated and talented team at the Chichester school.

The teaching staff is made up of industry experts such as Glyn Dillon (lead costume designer for Lucas Films) and Sarah Arnett (Dior, Escada, American Express).

Bill said: “Have you ever felt held back in your career because you didn’t get to university?

“The truth is the uni path isn’t for everyone and that’s no bad thing, not at all.

“For every person who spends three years studying, there are plenty more entering the world of work on their terms. You’ll find out that kickstarting your dream job is down to you, not a piece of paper. Ready to feel motivated? Here’s how to have a career without going to uni.

“Get experience. Knock on doors, email and call and land an internship or work experience placement in the office or industry you want to work in. Employers are seriously impressed when they see dedication on this scale and are often willing to start training when they see a rising star in the making.

“Get enrolled. While a university education might not be the way to go for you personally, a college course might just be the springboard you’re looking for. Find practical courses that teach you the skills you need to get started. It’s well worth the investment and you should be able to work around lessons, making it far more accessible and manageble.

“Get confident. Believe that you’re more than capable of embarking on your career and never feel that you’ve missed out or aren’t able to pursue your dream job because you didn’t go to uni.”

At the West Sussex-based Strohacker Design School, students will learn all they need to become valued working members of the industry – learning how to use their skills for branding, advertising, print, packaging, website/ and UX/UI mobile user experience.