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Enough is enough, guys!
Let me set this straight once and for all.
So you have decided to become a web designer, right?
That is just AMAZING!
But did someone recommend you to go to college to do that?
That is just HORRIBLE!
Whoever said it deserves a slap on the wrist!
Because college is where you get taught stuff, right?
RIGHT!
So, this is where it all gets horribly wrong.
And now let me explain to you why…
+VIDEO At The End
![Learn Web Design The Right Way: Quit College And Start Sucking Blood [+VIDEO]](http://www.1stwebdesigner.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/vampire.jpg "Learn Web Design The Right Way: Quit College And Start Sucking Blood [+VIDEO] Photo")
Listen my friend, just in case you have not realized yet.
Web design is something much more than just writing a piece of code.
It is a very creative process.
It is so creative process, that right now you must listen.
Just listen… listen…
Can You hear it?
What does it sound like? Scary? Is it loud?
Can You even guess what it is…?
It is the inner You.
It is the real You.
The one, who is always thirsty.
Thirsty for curiosity, Thirsty to be naive and Thirsty to be foolish again.
I do not mean just thirsty.
But really, really thirsty, as thirsty as vampires are for blood.
And now guess what…
Schools kill this thirst for creativity and thirst for curiosity.
And most certainly will not let you stay naive and foolish either.
![Learn Web Design The Right Way: Quit College And Start Sucking Blood [+VIDEO]](http://www.1stwebdesigner.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/WeVampsTooCoolForSchool.jpg "Learn Web Design The Right Way: Quit College And Start Sucking Blood [+VIDEO] Photo")
But do not give up just yet.
Because we vampires are stronger than that.
Now, please do not get me wrong here.
College is not evil, at all.
It is just a wrong choice for some people.
I personally study psychology.
And it is certainly a recommended choice for lawyers, doctors and dentists.
But, Thank You God – I did not learn web design in college.
College is a type of factory.
Have you never thought about this?
College manufactures everyone using the same standards.
Using the same learning techniques.
And using the same rating systems for everyone.
But How Dare They?
You are a unique human being, there is no one else like you.
You surely like to learn things different way than your friends.
And This Is Where It All Gets Wrong:
In schools You get taught stuff – but You do not need to be taught.
You want to learn and be curious, without being taught.
“Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and I – I took the one less travelled by,
And that has made all the difference.” – Robert Frost (The Road Not Taken)
If you learn web design yourself, using your own way to learn, guess what?
You will become more unique and more original than all the other guys who have been taught using the same methods.
This is what you would have to put up with in College.
I personally choose to learn web design the way Vampires do.
“I can tell you I don’t care which school you came from. I just want seriously smart, passionate and determined hackers on my team.” -Peter Chang
This video should make you think about your decision. It is just amazing how a great self-taught Sr. Interactive Designer at a leading financial services provider Wren Lanier started her career.
Image by Purple Slog
Everyone who has learned web design using my blood sucking method knows that it is important to stay curious and patient.
Just remember my words now.
If You stay curious and patient you can definitely become self-taught.
And to back me up I can tell you, that these wise words come from my own experience.
But come on, how nice would it be if I had something more to back it up?
Deal!
Here are self-taught designer Tobias van Schneider’s words:
“Everything starts with curiosity and YOUR first step.
Just listen to your instincts.“ – Tobias van Schneider’s
You can follow Tobias on Twitter, Dribble or Like him on Facebook.
Tobias was born in Germany, but now resides in Austria.
He also writes about Being Self Taught.
Image by El Payo
Hey, I have heard this somewhere before!
Is that what you thought to yourself when you read it?
Probably you did, indeed, and you know why?
Because this is one of the most famous Steve Job’s quotes.
He also said something very interesting:
“I dropped out of Reed College after the first 6 months, but then stayed around as a drop-in for another 18 months or so before I really quit.” – Steve Jobs
Here is Steve’s speech for Stanford students in 2005
Image by Pawel Loj
I still remember those days in school, when I was called naive.
The problem was – they meant it in a bad way.
They clearly should find out more about the way we vampires learn stuff.
Being naive again.
Yes, again, as naive as when we were little kids.
Being naive is not being stupid.
It means being able to see a bigger picture.
In college no one will let you be naive again.
But when You learn web design yourself, you give yourself a permission.
Yes, a permission to be naive again.
“Every true genius is bound to be naive. “ -Friedrich Schiller
These young designers did not think they would need to finish college to make it happen in design industry.
They stayed curious, foolish and naive enough to believe they can do it.
As a child Shyama learned how to write code, because she figured one day this internet thing would help her share her art with nice people all over the world.
And Today Shyama Already Works With:
NASA, LA Magazine, Computer Arts Magazine, MetaLab, Supreme Cort Of Texas.
At just 17 years of age Lewis got an incredible opportunity to move to Bath, joining a leading eCommerce agency Blubolt full time.
And Today Lewis Already Works With:
The Velvet Chair Company, bluCommerce, Tomorrow’s Web Meetup, Blubolt.
Gedy is a self-taught web designer and front-end developer. When she was just a kid, she remembers always wanting to play with electronics instead of Barbies.
And Today Gedy Already Works With:
Oasis House Ministries, Owyane Wade’s Fantasty Basketball Camp, Ivan y AB Music.
Ben is a self-taught freelance designer from Plymouth in England. He is very passionate about web design and user interface.
And Today Ben Already Works With: PixelBits Apps Ltd, MVP Tracker, Pixel Clouds.
He also has been approached by both: Google and Apple.
Vanessa is actually a pastry chef. She graduated with a degree in Baking & Pastry, but then decided to start web design. (great decision)
And Today Vanessa Already Works With:
Chef E Man, Karie Denny Photography, Roofresh.
Callum is half British and half Aussie. He has been working with Envato, Crowdsource and Geek Store.
And Today Callum Already Has Been Approached By: Google and Apple.
He Has Worked With Companies Like: Starcount, Kogan, Fancy, GPS Plus and Many More.
And Callum Also Has Successfully Launched: Dotgrid.co
Amy taught herself HTML at the age of 12 (wow) and she has naturally progressed from there.
And Today Amy Already Works With:
Shoon, Joseph Turner, Whittard, Oliver Bonas, Alphabet Bags.
Ivo has never received any formal design training, but he already has been doing design work since he was 15, when he first got his fingers on Macromedia Fireworks 8.
And Today Ivo Already Works With:
AppLovin, Kazoo Analytics, The NodeCMS, Socialbit.
“Like many designers, I feel that my talent has developed from hours of hard work, experimentation and simply from being observant of techniques and styles of others.” – Ronnie Francisco
Get The Only Freelancer crash course you will ever need to read!
19th of March, it was my 7th birthday. My Dad gave me an unforgettable present. The present he gave me was a book called The Road Ahead, the book was written by Bill Gates. I've been passionately in love with technology and digital culture ever since. But Still, there are two more things I indescribably enjoy: being with my Girl and living in Wales. As of today I write about web technologies at 1WD. Caution: It's quite often when people think that I'm rude, but the truth is I just like to speak my mind.
Tuesday, February 26th, 2013 02:29
really nice post . . i sooo wish i could be as talented as y’all .
i love creating websites for people and myself , right now all i know is making websites through cms (WordPress),
so basically i don’t know how to code ,but i understand it completely when i edit various wordpress themes n layouts n i know little bit html too. for rest their’s google.
when it comes to designing i am a complete noob , all i know is paint and a little photoshop.
i live in india and here is not much scope for a web designer but i really feel that this is the thing i want to do.
now why i am sharing this with you is because i need to know how you guys knw so much, i mean it took me almost a year or 2 to understand hosting ,WordPress ,layouts ,frameworks n all and now i read everywhere – guy started learning 2 yrs back n he is a profesional, if its college education(which sucks acc. to me too) then i know that i lack somewhere but when its self learning i reallly don’t understand how can one learn so much in such a short time. i mean is it some online course that i should do or buy some software like dreamweaver , i m confused . .?
All i want to be is a pro in this field , i want to do both front-end and back-end. And how do you guys develop websites through photoshop, these photoshop websites look smashing.
I want to be one of the good designers.
Your words r really inspiring, forgive me if i am asking too many questions , i just need some guidance.
Thank You
Sunday, February 10th, 2013 03:12
Ahh! I have to admit $49,000 later that I wish I had been introduced to web design a lot sooner. Yes, my passion to be curious and desire to want to know more about design did not start until the middle of my degree program. I could not stop because I am not a quitter at anything. Now, the “learning” that I am doing is all on my own via the internet. I wish I had been younger than I am now (32) before getting into web design. I’d be so much financially better off by now. However, we live, we learn, we move on and get better.
Now on to learn web design I go! :-D
Tuesday, January 29th, 2013 06:18
Awesome article! I was self-taught, and then went to school for a vocational certificate program… I wish the rest of college was like that program! There are ways to approach design academically (as in, get trained and prepared) – I’m hoping these emerging programs will become the standard of education moving forward, instead of the existing, stale model.
For my part, it didn’t matter HOW I got the information… I’ve ALWAYS been thirsty for it!!! ;D
Wednesday, January 23rd, 2013 15:10
Hi James… as you continue to actively argue the points you make (albeit in a much nicer way than you did with me), I thought maybe some of the readers here would find this interesting.
It is a nice breakdown of the average earning potential for American folks with certain levels of education. I’m hoping that some of what appears to be your inability to understand that people should be allowed to have a different opinion and their own thoughts on a topic (again, as referenced by your need to refute almost every point someone makes) may just be poor command of the English language?
Like I said before… did College “kill the creativity” as you have said it does of the developer of this site? I find the site and idea to be fairly creative, but maybe you don’t?
If you want to hide in your basement and have an excuse when your mom tells you that you need a job, by all means continue to treat your craft like a hobby and call yourself an experienced professional when you are not one. When you get serious though and want to build strong social skills and a good network of people like minded to move into the future with, not to mention the many, many important things that you will learn without realizing it, look into college and do it right. Your earning potential will increase rapidly and you’ll look back with pride for your accomplishments. That seems to be a point this fine author does not respect, pride.
Wednesday, January 23rd, 2013 19:31
Hey Matt My Friend
Nice to finally see You back.
I’m glad You actually decided to return.
I’ll be very short this time.
Because as You can see 90% of us here are already supporting my Blood Sucking Technique WeVamps
The link You provided shows only data regarding people with education.
There is no comparison to self-taught professionals.
And also it’s not specifically about creative type jobs.
This article is all about Web Designers, who need a lot of creativity.
As I repeat many times
Yes, college kills creativity, just as many of the videos show You in my article.
But college is not evil, at all.
Because I myself am in University studying Human Behaviour and Psychology.
And that subject is just like dentists, doctors and pilots.
These kind of professions all need education to be accomplished.
Regards Dainis, who is the founder and owner of this amazing place 1WD.
And I’m glad You noticed how creative this place is.
He understood that school is not needed at all in order to succeed in this industry.
He understood that his creativity would be killed if he didn’t action.
He understood that school wouldn’t teach him anything that he couldn’t find somewhere else.
So he just quit his studies without finishing them! And I must say: “Thanx God He Did!”
And here we go – Now You are here with us on in the community created by a guy who used my Blood Sucking Technique.
Thanx to Dainis for creating this place.
Regards myself. As You may have noticed I’m publishing more and more video posts.
And more and more are on their way. In fact my next one is due in few days.
Just because I like to be out there. I like to interact with people like You.
I truly wish You all the best my dear Friend.
And I’m happy to continue discussion on this subject as loooong as it takes.
I never get tired. And statistics just keep climbing and climbing.
This article is the most commented in 1WD’s history.
It’s received more than 300 tweets and nearly 300 FB likes.
So thanx a lot for keeping this article so popular.
Your contribution means a lot to us.
And Now One More Thing For You Matt
Will You please make sure You get back to us without running away for so long again?
Let’s keep this article’s discussion nice and juicy, shall we? :)
I trust You – I’m sure You will be back this time, without running away for so long!
I’ll Catch You Soon My Friend ;)
Tuesday, January 22nd, 2013 20:07
Well, your article did make me realize that I didn’t learn a whole lot about web design in college, but rather in the 7 years before college and the years on the job since then. However, I still don’t regret going. I knew I didn’t want to freelance and to get the jobs that I’ve had in marketing departments–both in retail and, ironically, in higher education–I needed a Bachelor’s, at minimum. The steady pay and added health/vision/dental benefits have made it worth the 4 years for me. Are there some FANTASTIC freelancers that can make even more? Sure, but those are ones that also have a strong business sense, (which might have come from college), and know how to market themselves well. People like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates who did not go to college but had the tremendous talent and made money and a name for themselves are the exception, not the rule. Even in their cases, they had other college-educated colleagues that helped them to build and run their now-successful businesses. College wasn’t a total waste because it did benefit them, even if indirectly.
The “College is a Rip Off” video is also very misleading. There are so many other factors that go into a person’s chance of success aside from a degree. The woman who had to move back home: did she manage her loans and finances well? (Even degree-holders can go into debt if they can’t manage money; then, a college-educated accountant or financial manager helps!) Was she in a geographic location where the jobs her degree was suited for were offered? And if she was, was she in a big population where competition is fiercer and did she have other skills to measure up with the other job-seekers? Did the rough economy really take a toll on her chosen industry. It’s a cop-out to automatically blame the college, unless they had a majority of the graduating class “fail.” You have to keep in mind, too, that college can give you the tools, but what you ultimately do with them lies on YOU.
Wednesday, January 23rd, 2013 03:04
Hey Terri
Thanx a lot for Your comment.
I highly appreciate it.
Well I can totally agree with You,
That there is no need to generalize anything at all.
There are people who are successful and people who are not as successful
Even though they have got a degree.
And the same applies to self taught ones.
That are highly successful ones, as well as not so successful ones.
My point here is not to say that School is evil.
But instead…
I’m trying to help people understand, that School is not necessity,
In order to become a highly successful web designer.
I’m also trying to help people understand, that there isn’t anything school will give You
That You would NOT be able to find and get anywhere else in your life.
Let Me Ask You Terri
Do You really think there’s something Schools can gives us,
That we wouldn’t be able to find anywhere else?
Thursday, January 17th, 2013 23:32
Hey!
This article has really cleared a lot of questions in my mind!
I am a 15 year old, school dropped out boy who is having home schooling now but the thing which makes me to comment here is that I am a blood sucking learner too! :D
I started designing at the age of 13 & now I don’t thing else rather than creating codes.
I felt that rather than earning through Ads & Campaigns is there anything else more stable in this field? Can I have it as my career but now i thinks that why not!
Saturday, January 19th, 2013 11:14
Hey Rahul
Really great to see You supporting us.
Welcome to WeVamps :)
I’m also very happy to see how determined and confident You are.
Because You are totally right, there’s nothing that could stop You to have a career now.
Can I Ask You Rahul
Is there any specific sort of things in particular You would love to do?
Saturday, January 19th, 2013 11:33
Hey James,
Well I likes to Create rather than Manage! :D
You may know how it feels when someone comes to you and says “You had created this! ??”
It is the best feeling of all times!
But the thing is, I haven’t mastered anything yet!
Still I makes my way just because I want to.
Saturday, January 19th, 2013 14:33
Hey Rahul
Thanx a lot for so rapid reply.
And yes, I know exactly what You are talking about.
Every time someone’s noticed something I created.
I’m like “Yeah, show time :D”
Do You Have Any Idea Rahul?
Would you prefer to be more in coding or designing?
Wednesday, January 9th, 2013 16:31
Hello James,
Finally, I could see someone echoing the words of my heart but alas if parents could understand that. I’ve developed an affinity to web designing during the first year of my 4 years bachelor program in Computer Science and Engineering but when my parents got to know it, they termed it as I’m wasting time. Though, they had to admit my work was creative and different yet the question they’ve asked was, how much does a web designer earn? Every other guys could do it even without any academic background. Having an Engineering certificate is a matter of glory while you might just be understating your career. I could only pass a smile in return, cause everyone would not understand, no matter how much I explain. I respect their views but who knows my career more than I do mate? Then I started practicing coding myself, like the self-taught champs on your list and well, the first 14 websites I’ve designed, I was not paid by the various clients I worked for. The local ones in Bangladesh kept playing so I took them as charity. But later I thought of putting them on my own portfolio – shopnil-mahamud.com and just before completing my graduation I was approached by a local company to work for them as a front end developer. No matter how much the payment is, I took the opportunity very happily cause that opens to door of more experience and opportunity for me. I know a very little but using that, I believe I could make something different than others. From a passion and hobby, it is slowly turning into a profession and I thank for those charity work I did where I tried to give my best.
Anyways, enough of the self talking, I just wanted to tell you that your article was extremely encouraging to me. I cant agree more with you. In my university, I was taught C, Cobol and fortran and I don’t know if modern world still make much use of them. 40 out of 45 courses were full of craps that I’ll never need in my real life after passing out the courses. This is just business by our pathetic education system. Someday these things will no longer be there hopefully. At least we would teach our children someday not to go for degree hunting but to go with their natural instincts.
Thank you so much for writing such an awesome article man.
Thursday, January 10th, 2013 03:55
Hey Shopnil
Wow now You gave me goosebumps.
I realize more and more how many people start to realize it.
So many people realize that no degree is needed.
In order to become successful in web design industry.
And yes, as You mentioned in Your comment there is another problem.
And the problem is our old fashion parents hahah :D
They can’t seem to understand that we have instincts.
And they can’t seem to understand that a degree is not for everyone.
For many people it’s just waste of time.
And Now I Wanted To Ask You Shopnil
What’s the next big thing You want to learn ?
Thursday, January 10th, 2013 10:34
Hello again James. I’m glad my comment has added an extra point to your article. I don’t know so much about the west but we in East, especially in the sub-continent, give so much importance to the orders of our parents and live with our parents as long as there’s harmony in the family. So, we cant argue with them while they’re bearing our educational costs. There’s not much of work opportunity in the market and we are asked to pursue our career only after finishing our studies. It’s extremely hard to get a job without degree at the same time. And when you’re going through the grinder of formal education, it’s not very easy to manage full time jobs. So, the society itself has shaped towards a more materialistic mindset unlike the west where no work is degraded. My country is suffering from population problem where in 44,000 sq km. there are 160000000+ people and I had to fought for that one post of web designer against 350+ applicants. Here comes the degree and grades as some parameters of selecting a candidate.
Anyways, I just wanted to give you an idea about a different country and society and how a life of web designer is. To answer your question- currently I’m trying to learn responsive web designing thoroughly in details. I’m aware that the future devices are going to more mobile. Besides, I’m planning to develop a side project website for intellectual bloggers who’re more into literature sort of things. This is just the beginning of my web designing career so I’m also looking for guidance from wise and experienced designers like you. I’m also reading different articles of this website. I guess I need to make a bigger portfolio before thinking about freelancing type things because I’m not ready to take anymore rejection at the dawn of my career and hardly any client accepted my bids. What do You suggest me to start with James? Did you check my portfolio? Would you please? :)
Saturday, January 19th, 2013 14:45
Hey Sophnil
First of all sorry for my late reply.
Thanx for Your comment.
I love so long story telling comments.
And I am totally aware of the difference between cultures.
And even here in The UK, in many cases, many people listen to their parents to much.
Afterwards ending up being totally unhappy and not fulfilled.
Because the answer is simple “Well, I did it to make my parents happy.”
Regards Your Freelance Web Designer Career Shopnil
You definitely need to present at least a “handful” of projects You have finished
So that your potential clients can actually what sort of style websites You create.
Also one thing that is getting big now I can suggest.
This industry has become very, very overcrowded.
So now it’s all about being very focused and specific.
It’s not enough anymore to state that You know PHP, jQuery, etc.
There are many people that know it, so You can’t stand out.
Instead become an expert at something specific.
Just an example:
Instead of
“I’m an experienced webdesigner, using PHP, HTML and CSS3 languages”
Go for something like
“I’m an eCommerce expert working Medium Sized Businesses ”
So if a company is looking for an online store.
They surely would go for an “eCommerce Expert”.
Not for an “Experienced Web Designer”.
Thursday, January 3rd, 2013 03:13
Hi!
First of all, I recommend this talk:
http://www.ted.com/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity.html
I agree with you in some points, but I think in (web)design we’re not just making beautiful, but working things. If you design a software, you should understand the basic concepts, because creativity should work in a pragmatic way.
Make the courses of codeacademy/learnstreet, and you’ll find it extremly useful. Secondly, you should understand the thinking processes of those using a software (UX).
Simply you just can’t create a good frontend without a solid understanding of the backend. Somethimes the developer pulls his hair out by the design.
Another important thing is that the understanding of the programing languages and the development will never end. So if you want to learn, you should start immediately with small projects, creating little things and building from the bottom up. You should practice every day!
Wednesday, January 9th, 2013 12:16
Ahoy Calvez
Thanx for commenting on my article
And by the way thanx for recommending that talk.
I’ve actually seen it before.
And I totally loved it, I even included it in this article :)
I Wanted To Ask You Calvez
Do You think all the things You mentioned cannot be learned without college?
Wednesday, January 2nd, 2013 11:58
My experience: I start learning Web Design by my self, then I think that I should go to school to learn it the right way and don’t waste more time and get a certification, so then I can work for someone as a Web Designer. After two – three classes and over $700 in school fees, I didn’t learn much and what I learn it was not exactly the path I will like to take as a Web Designer, so I quit and get back to study by my self. Also I have change the idea of work for someone else. Now I’m working on a strategy to get clients by my self with the knowledge that I already have and continue making some money when I keep learning. Be a full time freelancer is my final goal.
Wednesday, January 9th, 2013 12:13
Hey Javier
Thanx a lot for your comment.
I’m glad You’ve realized You don’t need to finish college to be a web designer.
Let me ask You Javier
How long have You been freelancing in total?
Wednesday, January 9th, 2013 12:44
James, I been a freelancer for about a year. I actualy work full time in accounting for a large company, however I enjoy more building websites in my free time, so hopefully one day I can run my own business as a web/graphic designer and quit accounting.
Wednesday, January 9th, 2013 12:46
Nice One Javier
So you actually have a bit of experience already
One year is already a bit of time.
So what do You think stops You from making that big switch?
Knowledge? Fear or something else?
Wednesday, January 9th, 2013 13:00
At first I thought I had to have a lot of knowledge and know how to CODE to succeed, but then I found WordPress. I use premium and free templates with very little changes and my client sites are ready. So at the end I know fear is what keep me away to make the switch, and that I’m the only source of income for my family.
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 14:33
James, great article. I just finished the degree program for web development and feel that all I got was introductory to the applications used. The material was outdated, and I found some examples that was provided in the required ebook to be wrong. I always had a passion to create websites, but after reading your article, I’m confused on where to find resources to help learn web design.
Could you provide some places to start looking?
Thanks.
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 16:57
Hey Chris
I’m really glad You’ve enjoyed my article.
And it’s very great You have decided to change the plan mate.
Let Me Ask You Chris
Before I suggest any resources to You.
I’d like to know.
How much do You know so far.
And what do You feel You feel You are missing out?
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 17:22
James,
So far I know some html and a little css. I learned some PHP. We was introduced to Javascript and Java, but I have to go back through the textbook to refresh the basics. I have created a website for a project, but mostly used Dreamweaver.
I feel that I’m missing out on designing and using more css elements to make pages more appealing and fluent. I feel that I was introduced to how to code and develop and maintain already produced web sites. And how to create sites using dreamweaver (which I am not knocking, but gotten used to coding manually).
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 18:12
Hey Chris
Well, I totally understand You know.
Knowing more of CSS will definitely make a difference.
There’s Something I Can Definitely Suggest
Chris Coyier has a great website covering everything CSS :)
And It’s called Css Tricks
Definitely check it out.
So many professional and credible web developers use it.
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 18:22
Thanks, James. I will definitely check that out.
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 12:13
I wish I could agree with you. I just graduated from a tech school, certified in Dreamweaver CS5, and am pretty damn good at HTML and CSS, but I could never find a decent job. I can’t find one job opening for graphic and web design that doesn’t say “Needs Bachelor’s Degree in Web Design and Needs 7 years of experience.” I’ve learned HTML and CSS, and it’s not that difficult to learn. It’s becoming a pain in the butt to find work especially after I just graduated. At this point, I’d have to say that anyone who’s been to college has a great advantage over those who don’t.
I wish I could go back to college, but I don’t have the time and the money to go back for 4 years especially at this terrible economy.
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 15:47
Ahoy Cynthetik
You just really backed up this story yourself :)
You are a graduate, and pretty damn good at HTML and CSS
But Yet are struggling to find a decent job.
That’s the current situation.
That’s why I’ve always said, it’s not worth.
No need to go to College to study Web Design at all.
And of course if You see yourself working for someone else
For the rest of the life.
Carry on.
But I believe You deserve more than being told by someone what to do.
Don’t You Think Mate?
It’s time to forget these “I’m working for…” times
And start thinking about how to create opportunities yourself?
Thursday, December 20th, 2012 01:56
I have played with websites for many years. I would like to get better at designing them. OH YES – could I get some stickers James?
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 15:44
Hey John
I’m afraid all the stickers are gone.
But I’ll make sure I’ll organize something similar in the future.
I Wanted To Ask You John
How much exactly have You learned so far about designing?
Monday, December 17th, 2012 09:15
Hello,
Your post is simply amazing ! I like your way thinking, school is important but web design is an art, a combination of creative spirit.
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 15:07
Hey Mate
Thanx a lot for agreeing with us.
And welcome to be a part of #WeVamps
I Have a Question For You
How long have You been into web design then?
What’s the next thing You want to learn?
Sunday, December 16th, 2012 15:14
There is a saying: “Formal education may help you make a living, but self-education can make you a fortune…”
I think anybody can be a web designer via self-education checking out tutorials on the Internet.
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 14:53
Ahoy Greg
That’s a really great saying I must say.
And it’s been proved so many times.
Can I ask Greg
What exactly are You learning yourself at the moment?
Saturday, December 29th, 2012 17:48
Hey James,
Marketing, of course, as the ultimate money making skill everybody needs to master in business.
Saturday, December 29th, 2012 18:55
Hey Greg
Yes, Marketing really is a powerful tool in these days.
Do You think marketing is what counts? Or Is it content?
Saturday, December 15th, 2012 08:25
Interesting, I never knew i was a vampire, no wonder! I need to bite someone!!! lol
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 14:41
Hey Frank
Great to see You realized my Blood Sucking Method works for You :)
Welcome to be #WeVamps
I Wanted To Ask You Frank
How would You describe my Blood Sucking Method,
Has worded for You?
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 15:58
Yes it has worked for me big time! so I’d say its a great way. Most folks who learn web design & development from institutions find it difficult keeping up with the trends, they’re not used to discovering stuff by themselves, that ability if they ever had it was killed in college!
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 16:48
Hey Frank
Really great point.
It’s even scary how many people have lost their creativity.
Could You Tell Me Frank
How many people You know have gone to college.
And how many people are using my blood sucking method?
Thursday, December 13th, 2012 09:49
I went to college to study Interactive Media, and Marketing, and eventually found my passion lay in web design and development. I went to a semi-traditional liberal arts school to acquire my degree, and honestly, for my career, I legitimately think it’s the best choice I ever made.
Perhaps some people can learn the tricks of the trade without a class structure, but for me, having that structure gave me an avenue to really shine with my projects. Maybe I was very lucky, but I was always able to apply my knowledge in other classes–even when it seemed unlikely.
I don’t think universities and colleges teach the most up-to-date information by any means; however, done right, a college education in web design can teach you about user experience and interface, which–I think–is absolutely critical to making a good website (and a good web design career!). It just means doing a lot more research when applying for schools, and knowing which schools are going to throw the “here’s how you comment out in IE” book at you, and who’s going to hand you the “users like rewards, not just errors” book.
I’m not head-on disagreeing with your article, either. For some people, this is exactly what they need to do in order to succeed. However, everyone’s different. For me, learning the fundamentals first in college provided a fantastic basis for all the knowledge I’ve absorbed elsewhere.
I did have one point of yours that really bothered me: the one about not having time for the truly valuable experiences (and income-generators). Someone should run a research project on that. Myself and numerous other students in my program were all freelancers/student web designers from the get-go. I spent at least twenty to twenty-five hours a week on side projects and my second job (web design for our library). College won’t prevent you from earning that experience. Only YOU will prevent you from earning it.
Friday, December 14th, 2012 05:51
Hey Kayleigh
Thanx a lot for You comment.
Highly Appreciated.
Wel, I can agree with You that.
College can teach You some technical skills
But it can’t teach You webdesigner’s talent as such.
One Point That Really Bothered You
You are totally right Kayleigh.
College won’t prevent You from earning that experience.
But still there is one problem.
Yes, people prevent themselves from earning it.
And the reason why it happens is.
Because they can’t manage to find enough time.
School is their excuse for doing nothing else.
Of course there are exceptions.
But Now I Wanted To Ask You Kayleigh
Do You really think You learned in school something,
That You would not be able to learn anywhere else?
Wednesday, December 12th, 2012 23:23
This is awesome! I’ve been investing a ridiculous amount of time in teaching myself web design in the last two months, and now I’ve got two clients. I’ve learned more than I ever would have in school in the same amount of time, and everything I know, I use; I don’t have any useless knowledge floating around.
This article simply gave me that many more reasons to make a career out of this. Thanks!
Thursday, December 13th, 2012 07:43
Hey RJ
Really great to hear Your story mate.
And I think there’s something You said that made me smile even more.
I am talking about you using everything You know.
And You have no useless knowledge floating around.
I Got a Question For You
What exactly are You planning your career around?
Will it be web development or web designing?
Thursday, December 13th, 2012 10:19
I’m not quite sure yet. I’m doing mostly web design but I have some previous experience with development.
Wednesday, December 12th, 2012 22:29
I went to school for Animation at a “factory” school (ie it ran more like a trade school then an pure university). I studied Computer Animation. I became a Web Designer. Now that I’m a stay at home mom I feel like I’m so behind the curve. I don’t have the hours in a day I used to spend on just burying my nose in a book or tutorial. Those hours are taking up with kids’ needs and demands.
I crave reading about SEO, SMO, internet marketing even as I want to get my hands on the next updated book on the changes in CSS and HTML5. I joined the Aquent Summer of Learning just to see if my skills matched up, and ended up in the top 7% of those who took the skills test.
Add to that I’m an artist who likes creating “cridders” and geeks out on biology, the environment, science. I’m just a super curious nerd-ette, jack of many trades ( I can drive a small farm tractor and bushhog down small trees! – I can change more the the tires on a car, and carry a spark plug gapper on my key chain, just in case.) I brew mead. I draw, paint, craft, crochet.
I just wish I could find a company that could use my skills, as wide ranged as they are….
Thursday, December 13th, 2012 06:58
Ahoy Hope
Wow, You really are a Jack Of All Trades.
And You know what…
Don’t listen to other people saying stuff like.
Make sure You don’t become a jack of all trades.
What really counts is what makes You feel comfortable
If You like to express yourself in more than one field.
GO AHEAD!
Shame You can’t manage to find more time
Sometimes we happen to be much more busy than we would like to.
I’d Like To Ask You
Have You every tried to reschedule your day?
Ever tried learning about how to become more productive?
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 10:46
College is only for formality. Today you can learn everything in the internet. At college they will only teach you the basics and its up to you if you want to learn more through self study.
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 12:19
Ahoy Pinoy
Thanx for comment mate.
Highly appreciated :)
I’m really glad You also have realized it.
And also have understood all the benefits of my blood sucking method.
Let Me Ask You Pinoy
What are you learning right now? And what do You want to learn next?
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 05:02
School may have taught you how to string together a grammatically correct sentence.
Your article has some absolutely great and valid points which are shrouded in complete incoherent nonsense.
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 06:05
Hey My Friend Aron
How’s it going?
I’m glad You managed to find time to read my hot article
Yes, I totally agree with You.
As I have already said many times – School Is Not Evil At All.
There are many skills and techniques You can learn.
But web designer’s talent without a doubt can NOT be taught.
Thanx for agreeing with other readers that my article have many, many great and valid points.
And the nonsense you were reading is what I call – My Nonsense.
It’s how I imagine things, how I describe things to others and how I express things.
This article 100% is NOT for everyone.
It was written only for few fortunate people who will understand and realize the truth.
But thanx a lot once again for Your opinion Anon
Highly respected.
Now I Wanted To Ask You Anon
What are You doing for living in these days then?
Monday, December 10th, 2012 16:54
This post is overflowing of awesomness!
Probably one of the best and inspiring articles I’ve read in ages..
Keep it up and thanks for sharing
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 06:00
Nice One Christian
Thanx a lot for Your kind words.
And You are total right.
Everyone can see now how hot discussions we have here.
It seems to be a very sensitive topic for so many people.
Christian Do You Mind Me Asking
What are You currently doing? Web designing, coding or some graphic work?
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 15:14
I’m attending my last year at high school, but in my spare time I’m working on two little web projects of mine, trying to get better at design and taking some photos.
And due to (thanks to) this article I’m not sure whether to go to the university or not ^^
PS: there are no stickers left, right? I’ll wait for my turn.. I need one of these stickers :)
Monday, December 10th, 2012 08:52
Very nice article! It’s really something I’m always through and obviously many others too, just take a look at all the comments!). In my case, I’m from Argentina, graduated at Advertising, focused on creativity. I started working at printing office on web design, and then I had the chance to work as web designer in an advertising agency, working for well known brands.
Later I work some months at a very important bank, being the only one in charge of web and graphic design…so, it’s always the question why I didn’t study graphic design, and many times it’s a problem, because I’m not planning to do so because I think I’m too deep at the career right now! (anyways I always think about that, but with 25 years It’s harder than before obviously)
What leaves me kind of comfortable is the chances I had and I did well, so that’s why i guess I’ll go on this way!
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 05:48
Hey Guido
Thanx a lot for your comment.
I really appreciate it mate :)
After reading your comment.
It feels like after graduating you ended up being a bit lost.
But luckily You seem to have settled down quite well.
But I Still Got a Question For You Guido
How many of Your friends are happy by choosing to go to college?
And how many are happy by deciding not to go to college?
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 11:24
James, after I graduated I had the chance at the printing office (after seeking without sucess adverstising jobs as creative, that I realized later i didn’t want to do that) because I knew about web and graphic design programs. I tried next year to study but left 3 months later…Then one day I just said ok I’ll send portfolios, if they call I’ll go, and then I had many more oportunities. Many times came out the question ‘oh you didn’t study graphic design, and I said that I wanted to focus on web design and the best way for me is on my own seeing what cames next, new stuff you don’t learn at university, etc. Of course my portfolio helped me a lot, I think that’s what can make the difference, if not they would burn me! haha
Answering your question, at this point I think most are suffering the troubles of studying, but I think they know they help them in the future. Anyway the ones that doesn’t go to college, as me, try to go to seminars, be entrepeuners and be active, so I think both have their advantages!
Congratulations for the replys and I’m looking forward for an even better post ;)
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 12:23
Hey Guido
I think You have done really well in Your life.
And that’s the way to go.
But of course there are many exceptions.
Both if You go to college or You don’t.
And thanx a lot for.
I’m also enjoying this nice engagement more than 200 comments :)
I Also Wanted To Ask You Guido
Do You find people in seminars helpful or not really?
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 12:33
Yes of course they are, so I think passion (and what you get on your portfolio) it’s the most important at the end of the day
I found many people on seminars, especially one I went during the first half of the year, where I met for example a graphic designer who I’m starting to work with (developmente and some graphic stuff togheter), and we are friends with another 2 guys, all of them graphic designers with many experiencie and 5 or 10 years old more than me! It’s was a kind of an investment and most important, it was free! I met people on the same or similar road, got feedbacks, learnt about ‘design and business’ and of course it’s always neccesary to go out, not always stay by yourself because yoy need people to stay with, and if you are not going to college this kind of activities may work quite well (and being related to your stuff even more i think)
Hope the explanation helps, i don’t know how all the seminaries work, for example in USA, but guess it’s something similar!
Sunday, December 9th, 2012 15:41
This discussion of whether college is a waste of time and money (or even a scam) has been getting more attention lately, and for good reason. However, I think there are some important things the discussion often skirts around without discussing directly.
What college really is is just a place to learn; that’s all it is. The problem isn’t that college is useless, it’s that so many people expect it to be something else. There are lots of things you can learn, for lots of different reasons; not all of the things you can learn will result in money. Also, not all learning sources are of equal merit. Finally, any learning tool can be used to a lesser, or greater degree depending on a lot of factors.
There’s a pervasive myth taught by parents, schools, and college recruiters that if you finish college you WILL get a job. That’s a ridiculous thing to tell young people, and it needs to stop. That’s like saying that if you read this entire blog, you WOULD get a job. College is just a learning tool, and the most expensive learning tool there is. That doesn’t mean it has value relative to that price, but just because it doesn’t always have that much value doesn’t mean that it never has that much value.
If you pay for college, you’re buying a bundle of learning resources. Those resources could be worth the price, or they could be rubbish. Even if you bought the best bundle of tools on the market (regardless of price), what matters most is still what you do with that. If you go to a college that is worth the price, AND you make the absolute best use of your time with those tools, you will likely get something worth what you spent on those tools. However, that still in no way means you’re going to make that money back, which leads me to my next point: not all learned knowledge earns money. What you really earn money for doing in this country is providing some kind of value or service to someone else. If what you learn doesn’t give you a skill which allows you to do that, you’re going to be just as poor as before, but with more debt.
So, here’s the thing. College is worth it, if you do it right. If you pick something you can make money doing (like web design/development), go to a place that is actually worth the cost, and seriously apply yourself, college can be worth it. If you go to college for something that you can’t make money doing, doesn’t have a large demand, isn’t taught well, or simply don’t care/apply yourself, you’re only going to get debt. This idea that college WILL make you more money is stupid and shouldn’t be repeated so often, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth doing.
This blog is a learning tool, and you can use it to grow as a web designer/developer. CSS Tricks, Smashing Magazine, Tuts+, Twitter (following knowledgable people), and A List Apart are all also great learning tools. College is a learning tool. Just as not every blog about web design is a good learning tool, neither is every college. You have to do your research, pick something worth the money, apply yourself relative to the cost, and continually assess whether it’s playing off in skills and experience. Expecting anything more from college than for it to be a tool to elevate yourself with will make it worthless. It is only a tool; you don’t build a house just by paying for a hammer.
Can you become a great and successful web designer/developer without going to college? Probably, as long as you already have some of the right personal tools/traits that will help you succede. It’s worth noting that people who can’t do it without those traits probably couldn’t have done it with college, either. You will be more likely to get noticed by the big wigs if you have a degree, but that’s a whole problem if its own.
Ultimately, I think the problem is that people expect college to give them a better life. That’s not their fault, they grew up being told that by people who who should (and in some cases, probably did) know better. Researched an applied properly, college can HELP you have a better life. It won’t do it all on its own, and it is absolutely not guaranteed.
If you go to college, use it like a toolbox. Asess whether it’s going to help you get what you want out of life, select the best tools you can get, apply those tools to the best of your abilities, and constantly reassess whether those tools are building what you need. If they’re not, dump them, but replace them with something that is helping you build what you need. Ultimately, you build your future in this field. If you do that best with blogs and other open tools, great; if you do that best with college, great. You can be a vampire with or without college, but you can’t be skilled in this field without learning.
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 05:34
Ahoy Brannon
Wow, mate. This really was an enjoyable comment to read.
It was nearly like an article on its own.
I really like what You said about us being told wrong, wrong stuff.
By parents, teachers, etc.
College is not a key, but one of the tools to find that key.
The more people will understand that the better.
But by writing this article I wanted to bring to everyone’s attention something else.
I’m more concerned that people think they can go to college to learn web designer’s talent.
But talent cannot be taught.
What they can go to college for is, to learn new skills and tools.
Tools that are important to present their work, to be open to other’s criticism.
And to learn to be more impersonal as webdesigner’s jobs is really around people.
Now Brannon Can You Tell Me More
Tell me what’s the story behind Your achievements in this industry?
I’d really like to hear that.
Sunday, December 9th, 2012 14:45
I agree wholly with the theory of Web Design being a talent and profession born of curiosity, naivety and passion (or thirst). It’s not a job one can do without being totally passionate about it. Else risk being years out of date in moments.
I also agree that going to College (and University) to learn web design bore no fruit for myself as I could already see that what they were teaching us wasn’t of any value when it came to practices, techniques, skills and workshops with regard to coding, design, ideas and interesting things.
However, I was lucky; and 50% of my degree course (which is now dead x_x; ) was learning very VERY important things which being a vampire could never teach you… these included research and development. Research of subject matter, clients and such, and development of an idea. One of the most important things in any creative process is the development of the concept, having other people giving critical and constructive feedback, and learning how to accept it and use it was so SO important for me. It should be a compulsory study for all students that ever go to college. I meet so many people in life who are unable to accept critical feedback, and become closed off when offered it. Nobody’s Point of View is ‘invalid’ and closing yourself off to even one bad feedback is doom.
Another huge part of my course was group presentations; something you only skim upon at school, and at school you are only presenting something that is right or wrong. At school you don’t get to present new, interesting and unique views; and doing so can be extremely daunting if you’re not given help and taught how to do it openly and without fear.
I didn’t learn any web design at college / school.
But I learn’t a whole lot of important stuff to boost the parts I couldn’t source code suck, or Google :)
I don’t know if the UK’s education system is more lenient, or my particular University was, or even if it was just a unique and great course leader, but I got so much out of University; even if nothing was web design.
I would suggest people interested in web design should experiment themselves and then if they like it, try something like Business & Enterprise, and/or Communication Design. Both teach valuable side-assets that a lot of ‘web designers’ lack after they leave education.
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 05:21
Hey Simon
I am really happy, that You were lucky enough to get on a good course.
But it’s no the case for majority of situations.
And the valuable skills You mentioned like:
Group Presentation, Research, Development, Being Open For Criticism.
Well, they all are very, very valuable skills, but not only for web designers.
Anyone would benefit by learning skills like that.
Therefore It’s a different story here, because.
Because such skills can be learned in separate learning program.
For example personal development and presentation learning programs.
But After All Simon
I do find your comment really good.
As You have understood that one’s talent can not be taught.
Where as skills to compliment this talent can.
Hey Simon I Wanted To Ask You Now
What are You currently working on?
Are You a self-employed or working for someone else?
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 09:49
Yes, well ironically, and a good example for your article; I actually didn’t finish my degree due to personal reasons.
I do not think any other members of my course at University actually have a career in web design, which again affirms your article.
However, I now work for a small digital media / web design agency, (just winding down a big global site project) and previously worked at a extremely large company building over 60% of the UK’s insurance broker quote engine websites including most household/highstreet names… and my success has been solely down to my passion and drive for the web, my ‘unquenchable thirst’ and the portfolio I brought with me to each job. :)
But lastly, I also want people to know: Having a piece of paper to show you’re dedicated, try hard and can focus on something is very helpful. Unfortunately even if we all stop going to education past highschool and focus all our times learning the best things about our industry: there are many many people in the world who hire web designers yet know nothing about web design. HR, Management, etc. These people might not even look at your CV if they don’t see a college degree. It’s sick, but it’s true. So I would say that it is important to cover your bases. It’s sad though that this kind of decision is very important (to focus on learning and getting better, or to get a piece of paper) and it has to be made when you are very young (16 in the UK) and possibly know nothing of how the world works. How ‘grownups’ are all concerned with matters of consequence and not passion, drive, determination and skill. They are concerned with their current job, task and pay check. The web is a future technology. Nobody that is a web designer works in the ‘now’. We work in the future. We work 2-6 months in the future at a minimum. We have to because each year before now has been 10% of the modern age of the internet. 5 years ago when I was at University was 50% of that age ago, and Chrome was a baby.
It is important not to be so far ahead that you cannot relate and communicate with the grownups who live in the ‘now’. Unless you know you want to be your own boss. Then you should study Business Studies and Marketing. not Design. :) But I wouldn’t want to do that, I love creating things.
Sorry, I went on a tangent.
But I think you need to show both sides of the coin, even if we all know one side is the best :)
Regards, Si.
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 12:12
Hey Simon
Thanx for another great comment mate.
I really like Your point of view.
There’s something strange happening.
Schools prepare us for todays’ market.
And that’s where it get’s wrong again.
Today changes constantly.
I believe we shouldn’t tell our next generation stuff like:
It’s good to show Your degree paper to Your potential employer.
Why not tell them, that there’s no such a thing as an employer.
There’s no boss.
They are their own boss, They set the rules.
They should learn what they want and at their own pace.
This old and rusted industrialists system dies and collapses already.
Go to school so your future employer will like You more.
It just sounds totally wrong.
Why not let them keep working on their own unique talent.
Only they themselves know how to do it.
Schools can only teach technical skillsets and methods to do something.
But because they are technical anyone can learn them using the same approach.
Where as one’s talent is unique and original.
Always should stay unique and original.
And You are right about marketing.
In these most web designers know basics of marketing.
They know how to present and market themselves.
To stand out amongst others.
But that’s an overall general skill
And anyone can benefit from it.
And What Else Simon
I will definitely think how to show both sides of the coin.
More than I did this time.
Thanx for Your suggestion mate ;)
Sunday, December 9th, 2012 13:04
Their is no doubt that your post is awesome.
The course which you tried us to learn was very deeply told i learnt a lot from here.
Thnks,
Monday, December 10th, 2012 06:39
Hey Saqib
Thanx a lot for commenting on my article :)
I’m glad You enjoyed it.
Saqib Can I Ask
What are You currently learning mate?
Get The Only Freelancer crash course you will ever need!
If not, then it's time to learn how to:
You can trust 1stWebDesigner to help you become a better web designer!
- Jacob Cass | Just Creative
Just enter your name and email below and click Get Updates!
James Richman
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 09:02
Have You Totally Lost Your Mind?
Schools are not not be thrown outta window at all.
Because in many cases not only are they recommended, but even crucial.
But in my opinion there aren’t many cases like that.
Just For Instance
I would defintely be against any doctor coming anywhere close to me.
If I was told: “Just to let You know, this doctor hasn’t finished any school”
The same with lawyers, solicitors and baristers.
No chance I’d go to a lawyer with no education, would You?
Would You feel comfortable boarding a plane if You knew pilot didn’t have any training?
More likely You wouldn’t, unless You love adrenaline.
There’s no creativity needed to become a pilot, a lawyer or a doctor.
And I myself study Psychology in university, so?
Schools Manfucature Everyone The Same Way
But if I was about to hire a webdesigner to get my website done, guess what!?
I would make sure I find the most original and the moste creative one.
Schools will manufacture every single designer the same way.
Do I want a webdesigner who is just like everyone else with no originality?
So guys, I guess my opinion is clear as sky again…
Quit College And Start Sucking Blood To Become a Unique Webdesigner
#WeVamps Too Cool For School
So Who Is With me and who is Against?!
And Who Wants a Sticker? (first 10 only, hurry up!)
Edward
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 13:52
Hi James. Am I too late to get my four free stickers?
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 14:04
Hey Edward
I’m really sorry mate, but.
All the stickers went within first hour.
But I promise I will organize something like this in the future again.
So You can support us again Edward.
But Edward I Wanted To Ask You
Obviously if You want these stickers You are a fan of my Blood Sucking Method.
Have You already learned much about Web Designing?
Dennis
Friday, December 7th, 2012 00:00
I want to be a Vamp! greetings James , from Perú
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 14:06
Ahoy Dennis
It’s fantastic to have someone from Perú.
And I’m real glad You are with #WeVamps
Do You Mind Me Asking Dennis
What have You learned so far?
Graphic work, coding or something else?
Dennis
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 23:18
I’m a LAMP (Linux, Apache, Mysql, PHP) developer but I also really like web design so I’m gonna combine it very soon! (I’m setting up my site now) for now I just have a little blog(repository xD of source codes that I usually post after solve some algorithmic problems).
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 06:10
Nice One Dennis
I just checked out your blog.
It’s really great how You share every single problem solving code :)
But Also Denis I Wanted To Ask
What’s the website You’re setting up gonna be about?
Just a portfolio of Yours?
Nils Schönwald
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 21:17
Hi there,
I’m Nils from Germany. First I want to thank you for this article. Here in germany the education system is slightly different. I can agree with the point that you have to learn some basics in life. But sometimes I sat in school and thought “I’ll never need this in my life again”. I think you have to learn which purpose in life do you want to take. So, do what you like, but sometimes you have to learn the basics in school or college.
I’m now at the end of my training as an electronics technician. I’m at the very beginning of my career. My difficult part now is that I dont have got a certificate or something else in Webdesign or Webdeveloping. The only thing I’ve got is six years of experience and a few references. It’s not easy to find a job without such certificate.
By your definition, I’m such a vamp. For the last six years I’m sucking Information out of the Internet to improve my skills.
For example http://www.rueckenwind-luebeck.de is online since yesterday.
Great inspiration I find on deviantart.com and tumblr.com (tumblr for inspiration in interior decoration^^)
After my training I want to do what I like to pay the rent.
Wish me luck to find a job I like.
Greetings from Germany
Nils
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 03:39
Hallo Nills,
Wow, Your work is real good.
Especially if You say you never went to college to study web design.
That’s exactly what I can actually agree with You on.
As I said before, School is not evil at all.
I am saying that something as artistic as web design.
Should not be taught in schools
It should be learned on Your own.
Discovering and developing your creativity, talent and curiosity.
I Definitely Wish You Luck Nils
But Let Me Ask You Now
Have You Only Thought About Working For Someone Else?
Never Thought Of Working For Yourself?
You don’t need a certificate for that, at all.
Nimrod
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 21:55
I couldn’t agree more with this, James! School is really a big killer of creativity.
I remember going to college to study computer engineering but then I quit after my first year due in part to my great disappointment of the professors and instructors there. I was not learning anything new from them at all.. so it would have been too much to ask for creativity ideas or inputs.
But I’ve always been passionate about computers and tech stuff, so I did not stop my learning when I quit computer college. I learned things myself and from people whose work I admire, and I’m really grateful I left those losers from college before they could kill what’s in me. :)
and by the way, I think those stickers are really cool. I wonder if you could send them for free even if I’m from overseas…
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 03:59
Hey Nimrod
I’m so, so happy to see You here with WeVamps
And You are totally right mate.
If You didn’t leave college.
You wouldn’t be able to stay foolish again, creative and curious.
And I think it’s one of the best way to learn from people You admire.
Which is not very often to be your tutor.
But Can I Ask You Nimrod
What exactly are You into, withing this tech industry?
More web development or like electronics engineering?
P.s.
Your location would not be a problem at all mate.
But there’s another problem, I’m afraid :(
All 10 sets of stickers are already reserved.
But guess what?!
I’m going to organize something like this again soon.
So You can support us next time :)
Nimrod
Friday, December 7th, 2012 05:25
I’m actually more into online marketing but it required me to design and develop sites both for my own and for clients especially when I see that there’s a lot I can do to improve the existing ones people are using.
Anyway, about the stickers… that’s just a bummer, I arrived too late. I guess I’ll just have to wait for the next one! :)
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 08:07
Hey Nimrod
Ouh Online Marketing.
Very competitive niche I must say.
But yet, very, very profitable.
I hope You are doing well.
As there are so many “Marketing Gurus”
Who can mess up the industry.
About The Website You Develop
Do You tend to use open source platforms like WordPress, Joomla, Drupa.
Or are You making them all from the scratch?
Leah
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 20:02
I agree that college is distracting. I’ve also noticed though that almost every job opportunity I’ve seen requires at least a four year degree PLUS experience in the real world. Maybe, it’s possible, that a person can land those interviews without the degree just on the force of a great portfolio, resume and confident personality. Of course, a ‘web designer’ (which is what this article is aimed at) and a ‘web developer’ are two different things. So, I guess I’m kind of comparing apples to oranges. I enjoyed the article and your point-of-view anyway. Thanks.
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 03:09
Ahoy Leah
You are totally right.
There are still many rusted and old fashion companies.
And yes, those companies will ask for some cool degree.
If people want to climb this corporate ladder, go ahead and get a degree.
But there are already so many new companies, who have learned and accepted changes.
All they care about is – “If You can deliver me the results I’m asking, I don’t care if You did study or not.”
But I Wanted To Ask You Leah
Are You more into web development or web designing?
What are your next aims You want to achieve?
Leah
Friday, December 7th, 2012 12:43
If you’d seen my “designs” you wouldn’t need to ask. You’d know I probably ought to stick with development. I’m still enamored with bright colors and special effects. At this point, I want it to fly and whistle, too. The technology today is awesome. With HTML5 and CSS3 gaining browser support so much is possible. I know that just because I can do something with code doesn’t mean I should BUT until I grow beyond being like a kid in a candy shop, I am probably better off leaving the design to people with less tacky tastes. *smile*
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 08:11
Hey Leah
I enjoyed Your comment so, so much.
It really made me laugh a lot.
If Honestly I like people who can laugh about themselves.
And You definitely know how to.
You seem to be a very confident person.
Which is really needed personal skill in this world.
And I think I know what You have got it.
Because You know what You are capable and what You are not.
Apart From Websites That Fly And Whistle
Where Do You See Yourself In 5 Years Time Leah?
Leah
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 19:55
Next year I’ll have my Bachelors Applied Science Degree with concentration in Web Development but in 5 years I know I’ll still be learning (while paying a mountain of education debt). I agree we need to be blood thirsty for knowledge or we’ll never keep up. My dream in 5 years would be to be working out of my home – happily coding, coding, coding. *smile*
Linda
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 19:55
James,
I agree 100% “WeVamps Too Cool For School”. I stared teaching myself website design back in 2004. Online and for Free. I was curious, eager to learn and it was fun. Web Design is a form of Art. Either you have the talent and learn to build on those skills yourself or you don’t. Your welcome to send me a sticker if you like. Linda
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 02:56
Ahoy Linda
Really nice to see You here with WeVamps.
And I’m glad You enjoyed my article.
I like what You just said.
Online and for Free.
Isn’t it just amazing how many tools are now available for everyone.
And now, would You need to waste Your time and money to do that?
No.
Do You Mind Me Asking Linda
What is the one thing You enjoy in web design, You have learned so far?
P.s.
I’m really sorry Linda, but…
All the stickers have been already reserved for others.
I’m definitely going to make sure there will be more opportunities for You to support us.
Hope To Hear From You Soon Linda.
Linda
Friday, December 7th, 2012 06:34
James,
“What is the one thing You enjoy in web design, You have learned so far?”
I enjoy sharing my talent with others. I’m grateful to the many online resource authors to have learned K.I.S.S ( Keep It Simple Stupid ) and to create websites that are usable and end user friendly.
It is truly amazing how many resources are freely available. One just needs the desire, drive to learn and the proper resources. If you combine that with curiosity ( inquisitive thinking, thirst for knowledge ) and creativity you have a Self-Taught Web Designer who never stops learning and creating. Why? They enjoy being curious and creative!
P.S. Perhaps you could make a Sticker for “WeVamps” to share on our website show our support. Just a thought.
Thank You for all you do for others. Linda
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 08:19
Hey Linda
I’ve never heard of K.I.S.S
But I already like it a lot, a lot, because it just makes sense.
I Wanted To Ask You Linda
How Would You Describe Your Average Client?
About The Stickers
I just sent You an email with the sticker’s design attached to it.
I Will Catch You Soon Linda :)
Linda
Tuesday, January 15th, 2013 06:00
James,
Thanks for the sticker. It’s finally placed on the About page of my Portfolio.
I’m just starting to freelance. So far my Average Client is a local not-for-profit organization. I have also designed some skins for ProjectPress and started a Small Business Directory for local Businesses. Every one has to start somewhere. I enjoy creating!
Thanks again Linda
Lucho
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 19:57
Am I too late for stickers?? :)
I’m going to be very short… When I got married, I think my wife gambled with me, I didn’t have a car, I didn’t have a job and we knew each other for 5 months. About my career, she knew that I was into computers and all that and that I didn’t finish college.
3 years later, I’m making more money than her (she’s a College Graduate teacher) and I keep learning by myself everyday.
School is not for everyone, I dropped out because I moved out of my country but once I started getting into web development… I don’t want to stop learning. #VampireStyleForLife :)
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 03:03
Hey Lucho
Well, You are definitely another great example of how my blood sucking method works.
I bet now Your wife believes in You even more.
And I’m so glad to hear how quick it was for You.
You didn’t need to go to college for 4 years.
Instead it took You just 3 years.
To actually even earn more than Your wife Graduate and Teacher.
Can You Tell Me Now Lucho
If I asked You what is the only one thing You enjoy the most about what You do?
What would it be?
And also where are You from?
P.s.
I’m really sorry Lucho, but all the stickers have been already reserved.
But I will definitely organize something like this again, so You can support us.
Priyanka
Friday, December 7th, 2012 01:14
you were right james! we never learned the exact subject subject what we really want to. i want to learn web designing online for free. please help me by sending the website or from where i can learn web designing form the beginning to advanced level. send me on my mail.
thanku!
with regards
priyanka
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 05:05
Hey Priyanka
Nice to hear You are her with WeVamps Priyanka.
You obviously understand the importance of staying curious.
But Now Guess What Priyanka
I cannot send You a single resource to go to learn from basics to advanced.
It all depends on what level You are now.
There are already many good resources.
Like webdesign tuts+ and of course 1WD
Where have You been learning webdesign so far then?
James
Friday, December 7th, 2012 01:34
Send me a sticker! We have the same name for cripes sake.
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 05:10
Ahoy James
Hey, yes the same name indeed.
Congrats on being called James then:D
I’m sorry, that I have to say all 10 sets have already been reserved.
But You know what?
I will definitely organize something like this in the future.
So You can support us again.
I Want To Ask You James
What are You into exactly?
Are You more of a web designer or a web developer?
James
Friday, December 7th, 2012 11:37
I come from a scientific background where I use programming but not for web per se. I have an interest in web design but enjoy the programming more, as a dabbler, really.
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 08:01
Hey James
I would’ve never guessed scientific background :)
That’s pretty much a blind picture for me mate.
But I Want To Find Out More About That James
What exactly is it that You do?
Jim
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 19:52
Greetings from Greece, I agree with the most of your article…I started getting interested with web designing some years ago. I bought some books for html, i download pdf archives, watching video tutorials an dreading text tutorials… Universities in greece are free of charge except one… Open university… I wanted to study computer science and I applied a form 3 times and I got in the third time… I repeat: this is the only university in Greece where people have to pay to get educated… I thought it would be like adventure… but so far it isn’t… so many maths (we do 50% or 60% more maths than we need for informatics) and old languages… Ok… I ‘ve learned C… So? I am not interested about C, I don’t think I will use it and I don’t want to use it… I asked if are we gonna be tought HTML5… no… The answer was quick and negative… as I said i thought education will be an adventure to me with more practice and no so much theory… pitty… I want so much to learn about signals and start learning more things about live streaming but till then there is so much time and I feel i I will kill myself zillion times (no kiddin’)… so far for some extra income (and nowadays my only income ’cause I am officialy unemployed thanks to this huge artificial financial crisis) i am creating blogs or modifying them or writing small scripts or design logos, edit music and videos etc… I would really love to change school in university and keep learning by myself anything I want about computers, coding etc… Sometimes is a good thing thogh to have someone to guide you, to explain you… that’s the plus universities have I think… I believe there are some schools, colleges, universities where something good happens ’cause of tutors’ will…
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 02:50
Ahoy Jim
I never new there’s free universities for You guys to study.
That’s a really amazing step towards changes.
But Your problem is really common in these days.
I’m actually not surprised You are bored Jim
As I have mentioned earlier in this story.
You will be forced to be taught stuff You don’t want or don’t even need.
And no one will teach You stuff You want to learn
And not even at Your own pace.
Hey Jim I Got a Question For You
What exactly do You want to do in the future?
Would it be more app developer, web designer or web developer?
Jim
Friday, December 7th, 2012 05:31
Hi James… Well here my answer to your questions. What do I wanna do in the futere? I ‘d like to do a job that has to do with internet… Website designer and to be a specialist on live streaming and of course app developer for mobile devices. Of course that needs coding that’s why I got into university but as I ‘ve told ya there are plenty of boring lessons over there… BUT… There is a huge but… It ‘s different what I wanna do than what I am gonna do… Sometimes things are not coming the way we want and we do odd jobs just for living…
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 08:23
Hey Jim
App development for mobile devices.
Seems to be a really safe choice for the future.
And yes, I remember You saying, that
The lessons in college are hell boring.
But I Also Wanted To Ask You Jim
What’s Your Next Biggest Goal You Want To Achieve Within a Year?
Jim
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 10:20
Well, living in Greece that is Big time screwed up ’cause of this artificial financial crisis plus I am unemployed I have 2 main goals for the next year: 1) to survive, 2) to be able to pay my bills…
Kat
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 19:21
Hi James, there were a lot of great points in your article, and now I want to point out a few things about school that I think are beneficial:
I took a 3 year design program (not web design, however there was a small component of it included):
1) I was part of a talented and supportive class of 22 people for 3 years; we were able to grow and learn together, offer feedback, and learn from each others’ insights. While the internet has many communities of designers, and a lot of them wonderful people, there is something to be said for sitting together and forming your critique, and voicing that critique. It helps you craft statements that are constructive, because you have to have lunch with that person later in the day!
2) Motivation. A lot of people would like to be an artist or a designer but don’t have the motivation to learn independently. As a freelance person, people often ask me how I can work from home. Why don’t I sit in my pj’s all day and watch TV? In the same way, the internet offers many, many entertaining things to do besides learn. You have to be really dedicated and motivated to learn each and every day. I’m trying to improve myself as well, and the internet is amazing, but I really have to work at it to balance it with client work, day to day errands, etc.
3) Guidance. In school I was fortunate (and unfortunate) with my instructors. But I learned from each of them, and the one on one time to go through issues, and really understand their experience has been a great help. I respect many of the amazing designers that have made their thoughts and guidance available online, but you can’t always get their feedback, since they’re busy and offering articles for free! They have to make money too, so they can’t spend all day telling someone how to improve their site.
What do you think?
K
James Richman
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 19:30
Hey Kat,
Thanx a lot for taking your time to comment on my article.
Well, You definitely made a really good point here.
I actually totally agree with every one of those three points You mentioned.
If You Want To Know What I think About It
Basically as good as all of those benefits sound.
I don’t think that You should waste money and waste time to get it.
There are so, so many people who are ready to partner up
Create a group and learn together, help each other and take this journey together.
In College:
- No one let’s You learn exactly what subjects You want to learn in college.
- No one let’s You learn at Your own pace
- No one let’s You learn from Your own mistakes
- No one let’s You learn the way You want to doing stuff the way You want to
No one cares about Your creativity and curiosity to discover new ways to do stuff.
There’s schools’ guidelines to be followed by every teacher.
What Do You Think About It Now Kat?
Thanx For Your Time Once Again :)
Kat
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 20:23
Haha! I think we’re coming at it from two valid and different sides:
I’m thinking about my college experience and how it taught me a process of work and how to work with others. That was valuable. What you’re bringing to the table is the content and pace of the learning.
Your points there are very true, and can be hugely frustrating for people trying to learn. You are probably motivated to learn and work hard to get good at what you’re passionate about, and it takes confidence and savvy to find the resources online that are going to enable you to get from A) to B).
I’m trying to learn online, but there are gaps I’m finding in trying to learn programming. It can be discouraging when I have a very particular question about how something is structured, and I can’t find it. There’s no one right there I can ask, who I know is qualified to provide me with the correct answer.
I also have a bit of fear of looking silly online, so I’m less likely to post it as a question in a very public forum than I would be to ask in a classroom. That, however, comes down to learning styles.
And I think the only successful programmer I know who went to university for it was my dad who graduated in ’67 :) Thanks for the thoughts, I’ll be back for your next article :)
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 03:19
Hey Kat
I totally understand your point again.
You are right.
If for instance we take the process of work and how to work with others.
I just thought about something again.
I am sure You can learn all of that in real life situations.
You can team up with like minded people.
You can attend conferences, seminars and webinars.
And also what You said about Your fear looking silly.
You shouldn’t worry about it too much, because…
You are not the only one like that, there are so, so many people.
Who fear to fail, look silly and to be laughed at.
Even I had this fear.
But You will be very, very surprised.
Very surprised how many people are willing to help You
Totally For Free.
Guess what I used to do, when I couldn’t find any answer online.
You will be surprised how good it works.
I actually found a web developer and got on his website.
Found his contact email and emailed him.
Asking him and being very honest:
“Hi there, I really like Your website.
You seem to the experience and knowledge I’d like to have one day
But while I’m still learning, Can You please help me.
With something that bothers me for a while.
I don’t understand how blaah, blaah, blaah works.
By any chance You would know more about it?
And if You don’t
Maybe You can recommend someone I could ask?”
That sort of personal contacting always has worked for me :)
And thanx a lot Kat for staying a loyal reader.
P.s
All The Respect To Your Dad :)
Aashish Dhiman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 12:29
Very Goooooooooooood Articlle!! ihave to say makes me inspired
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 09:56
Ahoy Aashish
Thanx a lot for Your comment mate.
Really glad You enjoyed it.
I’m always happy to hear that I can inspire others.
Now, I’d Like To Find Out More About You Aashish
What exactly are You doing in these days?
What’s more close to your heart, designing or coding?
Aashish Dhiman
Sunday, December 9th, 2012 03:37
I am a 19 year old guy from India. Well I am pursuing my college right now and designing is my passion. Coding is also good but requires lots of time and sometimes its just makes me frustrated.
James i like you articles , hope to see more good ones from you in future.
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 07:39
Hey Aashish
Wow, at the age of 19 You are already doing well mate.
I just checked out Your Shake The Web Project.
Can You Tell Me More
What exactly are You trying to achieve with
Shake The Web Project?
Will it stay just as a blog or something more than that?
Aashish Dhiman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 11:46
Well currently i have started shaketheweb.com because i like design blogs a lot and i also want to have one. But it takes a lot of time and research. But still i somehow managed to get time for shake the web. Also i am not getting sufficient visitors. I am getting less 10 visitors a day and it has been only a month when i started shake the web. So the thing is the hardwork and effort i am putting in STW is not that worth off. But i have just started blogging just now and there is lot more to see and learn about, so never loose hope. hope…
augusto wloch
Friday, December 7th, 2012 08:52
dear james, im soooooooooo late that stickers. shame on me.
anyway, i wanted to send you my gratitude for another brilliant article. all the ideas exposed here are so motivational. these days, it’s so important to re-think what is education (and as a father it’s double important, or better said it’s !important;).
ps: btw, could you provide a file with that sticker design, so the one’s who cannot be blessed with them, at least can print it and share the cause?!
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 09:20
Hey Augusto
Thanx alot for Your gratitude mate :)
I’m glad You enjoyed my article.
And actually this is something that worries me too.
Because when I’ll be a dad I will have to take this matter even more serious.
So I’m quite glad that I and many other’s have raised this problem to be discussed.
About The Stickers Augusto
Yes, I’m sorry to say, that this time I don’t have any more left.
But I promise to organize something like this in the future for You again ;)
And I will email You the design of the sticker.
But I Have a Question For You Augusto
If You don’t mind me asking what do You say to Your kids about our old and rusted educational system?
augusto wloch
Sunday, December 9th, 2012 11:51
well. it’s a pretty hard situation. the only choices to the traditional educational system, are really expensive here (in my country at least), so I guess the better approach is try to ‘fill the gap’ and give your kids experiences or teaching at home that complements what they have at school.
You know.. these days (i’m starting to sound like a grandpa) there’s too much information trying to reach you that there’s almost no need to find new things. We are getting passive. I’m not saying that’s better or worst, just a change in the relation between man and information. So one thing that i like to experiment at home with kids is… “ok, no tv or internet today. find something else to do”. as expected the first 30-60 minutes are a constant wailing “i am booooored”. but after that, and may be with a little help from dads, they start to have fun with games that they made up, no with the ones that came pre-built from tv o internet games.
So after all this long intro, the answer to what to say to kids (in my case, <10 years old kids), is that they must endure school. it will help to make full decisionss on a near future. As you can see. i'm not taking the step forward here, because i thinks they are too young. But try to give them some tools to explore the world and learn by themselves when i can.
ps: long post. really bad english. sorry for that! hope you can understande me! cheers, man!
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 07:51
Hey Augusto
Wow, You are such an inspiration as a Dad.
I can’t wait to be a dad too, I will ask for Your advice heh :)
And Your example of your kids finding something to do.
Even though they are always moaning and bored at the beginning.
And don’t worry about Your English mate.
It’s not bad at all.
I Just Sent You The Design File Of Stickers
I also wanted to ask You Augusto:
What’s the one thing You definitely want to teach Your kids in Your life?
I’ll Catch You Soon Mate ;)
AviaT-
Friday, December 7th, 2012 07:43
I agree with this post 100% !
I’m an aviation enthusiast since the age of 5 and a graphic and web design fan since I was 14 and a half. Year on which I first taught myself XHTML and CSS to build my father’s first website. I must say it wasn’t a pleasurable display at the time but I’ve progressed over the years.
My passion for aviation has always been greater and thus I’ve chosen to pursue a career in that field, however I’ve been working on the side as a freelancer and I’ve built myself a design related blog on which I can give in freely to my imagination and work on some interesting projects. That way I get the best of both worlds.
The reason I think your article makes a lot of sense is the fact that self-motivation can really get you a long way! If you’ve got the desire in you, the internet can be used as a major educational platform from which all the knowledge you can think of is being shared as we speak. All you’ve got to do is start learning.
Anyways, those were my two pennies worth added to this micro debate. Love this article and thanks again for sharing!
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 08:05
Hey AviaT,
Thanx a lot for being with WeVamps
We were short of pilots :)
But seriously now.
I think You are another great example.
In face I just checked out your website.
And If You tell me that You made it yourself.
Well…
It’s just really amazing.
And it’s even responsive.
It’s unbelievable how much You ave learned without college.
If I had found You before.
Believe me I would’ve included You in my article.
So Now I Want To Ask You
What’s the next step for You then?
What do You want to learn now?
AviaT-
Sunday, December 9th, 2012 10:20
I’m still studying for the JAA ATPL theoretical exams here in France, and have set a pretty ambitious goal for myself which is to complete the course by the end of this year and take on the exams in the start of the new year (If we don’t all perish on December the 21st that is =P). It’s therefore taking the majority of my time and the rest of it is dedicated to the feeding of my personal blog, and dealing with some recurrent clients. So even though I love design, I must make a few sacrifices on further learning in that field for the time being. However the sky’s the limit to what anybody can learn really, and I’m still going to keep updated, in the best I can, on current design trends and so forth.
Sorry for the late rep by the way, and thanks again for this marvelous article.
Cheers!
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 07:55
Hey AviaT
Thanx a lot for Your kind words :)
Really appreciate it.
And I’m sure You will do great in Your exams mate.
As You said Sky is the limit and nothing else.
By The Way Something Grabbed My Attention
And it was your sentence about 21st.
Well, I kind of believe in apocalypse. But Do You?
rwood
Friday, December 7th, 2012 14:03
James,
Just love this article. I really like the positive attitude and mindframe of teaching yourself and not relying on schools. I for one just finished my BS in Graphic Arts.
I truly enjoyed the experience and learned a lot- however i never learned what I am most passionate about in wither school- WEB DESIGN. It frustrates me to no end that they give you one course like a teaser and therefore expect you to know how to continue. Both schools I attended didn’t have a web program until after I graduated or until I was almost finished.
I want to learn NOW!!! Any and all help I can get I would take in a heart beat. I do still have my tutoring lab I can go to for help and a site to learn and teach yourself. But James, Stickers… I want stickers :)
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 13:19
Hey Rwood
That’s just exactly what I say every single time.
Why would You be relying on schools, or even use them at all.
If after all they can’t give You anything, that You couldn’t get through real life experiences.
About The Stickers
I’m really sorry to say Rwood all the stickers went within first hour.
But I promise to organize something similar like this for You to support us again :)
Thanx so much for Your support.
But Hey Rwood I Want To Ask You
How are You now planning to finally learn what You want to learn – Web Design?
williAM
Friday, December 7th, 2012 23:11
Hi James, nice article i think the same about everything in your article, and im a self-learner myself but i do think that going to college its important even if is just to know how “not to do things”. even Steve Jobs went there for some time so he could see the proper trends and subjects available.
Another thing is that sometimes you do need the prestige of a college degree for those close minds out there who ask for them or need them to trust your work or be assured. also theres a lot of advantages in getting the social links and contacts you get in college. as you said you can achieve all of these things for yourself but college is already there to give it to you.
Finally I think that in this world getting a college degree it can be put as an aditional advantage for yourself, maybe is not a “must” but it works as a complement pretty well
Now question: why there is still that separation between web designer-web developer, I think its time to coin another definition for us.. because there´s a lot of us that already do both things in order to be at the high of our demands…
Ps: sorry if i wrote something wrong, im still learning english.
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 14:01
Ahoy williAM
Thanx alot for Your comment :)
I really like when people have different opinion.
Well basically I can tell You that to get those things You mentioned myself.
Is not hard at all, in fact it’s even easier than in college.
I can already tomorrow go to tweetups, meetups, webinars, seminars and conferences.
And guess what, there are plenty of people I’d like to meet and who would like to meet me.
And about to learn things that You shouldn’t do, well…
I always say college is not evil.
It’s just the wrong choice for some.
In this case web design is big no, no.
Now The Question You Asked
I believe it will be still separated for a long, long time ahead.
Because if You are an amazing Web Designer You just don’t have time.
You don’t have time to learn any coding.
And You don’t even need to, because You can earn a lot, just with Your talent and creativity.
And the same with web developers/coders, the good ones don’t need to learn any design at all.
They more likely don’t even have any talent, they might be good at math and with logical thinking.
Now This Is My Question To You williAM
So what are You really into? More Web Designing, or is it Web Development?
williAM
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 20:28
Thanks for your reply James. as for your question i´m more the web-developer type but i had to learn alot of front-end develop and design stuff because you have to have the full package in order to pay the rent on this days.
Maybe is because what you allready said “the good ones” don need to do that. but what about the no so good ones?? those ones who lack experience and knowledge and are still struggling in their learning curve but still need to eat something??.
I agreed with most of your comments but is inevitable to see that you cut too much in the white-black department. still you are rigth, mabe you have to stand those issues only at the beggining but it would be more accurate to point at those in an objective aproach and not to see just the flowers and buterflys of the selfteach aproach.
There is an undeniable discrimination against those who don´t have a degree or some other kind of prestige and we have to gain it with our teeth.
Now allow me one more question please:
where can i get those conections and go to tweetups, meetups, webinars, seminars and conferences?? do you have any advice on how to do that even in the country im living now?? i’ll apreciate your answer thanks in avance and sorry for grammar erros again.
James Richman
Monday, December 10th, 2012 05:33
Ahoy williAM
I totally agree with You.
There can’t be only butterflies and flowers of my blood sucking method.
But at the same time neither is colleges all about flowers and butterflies.
You still have to stand out and prove You have something more than just a degree.
You got to prove that You have skills, impersonal skills and You can actually do something.
Your Question To Me
Well, there’s so many places.
But if You tell me what country You are from I will help You.
williAM
Monday, December 10th, 2012 11:15
you`re rigth now i totally agree with you
well. now im living in san jose de costa rica.. thanks for your reply and help again ill be waiting for those tips james..
Mosi
Friday, December 7th, 2012 14:04
WoW!
One of the best articles I’ve read ever!
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 13:36
Ahoy Mosi
Thanx alot for Your kind words mate.
I’m real glad You enjoyed it.
I assume You are also a fan of my Blood Sucking Method.
But can You tell me a bit more about yourself?
What exactly are You into? Coding, Design or maybe Ballet? :)
Pipeta
Friday, December 7th, 2012 15:39
You got the point!
I am going to school for web design to feed my hunger for learning, make progress, make new ideas, expand creativity and to finally build my first site.
But all i get is basic knowledge of Adobe programs(CS3), HTML and CSS with outdated learning technique, used 5 years ago. Witch all of you know that is long time ago when it comes to web design. They focus us on their slow rhythm of learning where you are distracted for your own way to learn. Most important i never felt that moment of inspiration in classroom.
My professors seems like preprogrammed not wanting to go “off the course” when we ask for different approach or technology. But reality is that they have they own learning method which they stick to it.
Maybe i was unfortunate in choosing right school. I was hoping my school will learn me to make beautiful and modern websites like you all do. One big plus that i got from school is, meeting more people who are close minded.
But now i realized all the information that i want to learn is on the web. I just need to look for it. And of course, be thirsty for it. Great article. Thank you.
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 13:44
Hey Pipeta
Thank You so, so much for taking Your time to comment on my article.
It’s really appreciated mate :)
I really enjoyed reading your experience, shame it’s quite sour.
But that’s the reality of going to college to study web design.
And You have really noticed something really common in colleges.
I’m talking about the attitude from tutors and professors.
They just have to follow college’s guide and rules of teaching.
No way they would teach You something You want or at the pace You want.
Hey Pipeta I Have a Question For You
What’s the one thing You really enjoy now since You left your college?
Pipeta
Sunday, December 9th, 2012 10:14
Hi James
I will say two things that i enjoy since i left my collage:
Freedom to learn what i want and when i want.
My part-time job.
One most important thing that i didn’t know before going to collage, is that you can get better and free
learning if you work part-time yob in some design studio. We all have mutual benefit. They need fresh
new ideas our 1 more creative brain who don’t work for salary and i need knowledge, projects,
workflow, etc. I learned more from them in 5 days than 3 months at school.
James Richman
Monday, December 10th, 2012 05:21
Hey Pipeta
You’re totally right about that.
Those are the things no one tells You.
The only thing they try to force is
You to think that without a degree You are nothing.
But You are a great proof that now You learn so much more.
For free, when You want, how You want and what You want.
Pipeta I Want To Ask You
Now what’s the next thing for You that You would like to learn?
valentino
Friday, December 7th, 2012 03:52
Great article! But the metaphor about us being vampires is not really my taste. Very creative though.
Well, IT’s not the first time I hear such arguments. I would be one who chose “the other rode”.
It must be told it’s not free from risk. Many are not made for learning on their own! There is no guarantee. This shows what big decisions we must make when, maybe, too young and inexperienced, as teenager.
I think you have approached the subject in a too definite way, too black – too white, with no shades of grey. What will you do with those who take your advice, quit college, and do not do well? They will point the finger at you as responsible for their mistake.
So, you should let room for the possibility of not being entirely right.
Otherwise, I mostly agree with you!
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 05:29
Hey Valentino
Thanx a lot for taking Your time to comment on my article
I really appreciate it.
But there is something I always do, which is…
If I have a strong, proved, researched opinion on something.
I paint it only in two colours.
Black and White.
And if someone fails after quitting college.
I will more than welcome to come back to me.
I will congratulate them on their first life lesson.
But at least their curiosity to discover new will be still a alive.
But unlucky once, doesn’t mean they will never be lucky.
And being lucky has nothing to do with being good at what You do.
And Seth Godin Says It The Best.
valentino
Friday, December 7th, 2012 06:49
I absolutely agree: And being lucky has nothing to do with being good at what You do, and I never said otherwise.
So, ok, the reality is that the education system is collapsing. You encourage freelancing on internet which is fine ONLY FOR SOME. It’s the same idea in your first comment, sorry i didn’t took the time to reed that to.
Let’s not promote the idea that the education system is evil and we don’t need it, because we all benefited from it in some degree. At least, do not let that idea reach high school kids.
But don’t get me wrong. I agree with most of your saying.
By the way, what nationality are you?
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 04:03
Hey Valentino
Here’s a little quote from my article:
“Now, please do not get me wrong here.
College is not evil, at all.
It is just a wrong choice for some people.
I personally study psychology.
And it is certainly a recommended choice for lawyers, doctors and dentists.
But, Thank You God – I did not learn web design in college.
College is a type of factory.
Have you never thought about this?”
So now You understand that I always try to make this clear.
That schools is not evil, but it’s just the wrong choice for some.
Valentino I am British.
But originally I was born in Eastern Europe.
And You mate?
valentino
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 14:34
Eastern Europe too. :)
Matt
Thursday, December 13th, 2012 18:06
No, you try to make it clear it “will kill your creativity”. Being able to realize it might kill YOUR creativity is not the same as asserting it will kill everyone’s. Telling me that is a black & white point is as arrogant as what you think colleges are doing.
curigirl
Friday, December 7th, 2012 03:07
okay, i didn’t know you looked that good ;)
and have to say totally agree with you, i learn nothing from my college, most of the skills i acquired came from self taught
James Richman
Friday, December 7th, 2012 05:12
Hi Curigirl
Thanx a lot for Your kind words :)
I really appreciate it.
Amazing to hear that You learned it all without a need of college.
Any regrets at all? Well, I guess now.
But Now Curigirl Can I Ask
What exactly is that You learned?
Are You into some graphic and design work or are You more of a coder?
Rakhitha Nimesh
Friday, December 7th, 2012 04:07
Hi James
Another inspiring article as usual. This is something that most of the students want understand. In Asian countries students are always pushed to go to college and graduate. Finally they end up getting a boring job whihc no way near there dreams. You need freedom to do what you love to do. After starting writing for 1stWD I identified the difference in my daily job and things I love to do. Now I know what exactly to do.
Thanks for sharing these great tips and hope to see more on 1stWebdesigner.
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 04:29
Hey Rakhitha
I’m really glad You enjoyed my article.
And thanx a lot for Your support mate.
Well, yes schools were build for industrialists.
To teach You to be a good factory worker
But times have changed and more and more people realize.
That climbing corporate ladder is not cool no more.
And that they shouldn’t put up with being taught stuff they don’t want or need.
But hey Rakhitha, I Want To Ask You
What’s the one thing You enjoy the most, now when You have this freedom?
Rakhitha Nimesh
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 11:58
Freedom allows me to do what i love when i want it. In college subjects are separated into semesters. when the classes begins we may not have any interest. for example i might not be interested in specifc part of web design. But if i see see inspirational application developed upon those parts, i might say i need to learn it quickly and do similar things.
by the time i want it class may be finished already. So i will not have any way of learning through.classes. In self learning methods you dont have such limitations.thats why i love working and learning alone.
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 07:59
Ahoy Rakhitha
I really agree with You on that.
That’s one of the best benefits of my blood sucking method.
Learn what You want,
And learn at Your own pace.
But Hey Rakhitha
What are You currently learning or want to start learning?
Rakhitha Nimesh
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 10:41
Hi James
At the moment I am learning responsive design techniques, WordPress Theme design and development.
I would like to learn anything related to web design or development that I can write on :) . Apart from that I am looking for a good logo design tutorial. Most of the existing ones are either theory and concepts or practical tutorials which shows how to create a logo from beginning.
I want a combination of both. How to think about design of logo. for example I want a logo for my site InnovativePHP. So i should be able to select what type of logo to use. How to match the logo with my site name. Also how to design the logo to match the design of the website etc.. Once completed I should be able to think of a proper logo for any type of site.
It may sound impossible. But thats what I want :)
Rean John Uehara
Friday, December 7th, 2012 04:26
True that, Rakhitha!
It is generally frowned upon to not attend college when you obviously can afford it, or there are state colleges that basically cost nothing. It’s either you attend a college or you basically fail at life. At least that’s the general feeling towards earning a degree.
Rakhitha Nimesh
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 11:47
hey rean
I thought it was only the thought process of people in developing countries lioe us.But it seems a common issue all round the world. I read your latest article on your site and that is what happens to most of the people after getting degrees wasing valuable years of there life.
Rean John Uehara
Friday, December 7th, 2012 05:12
James, what have you done?!
So, like many I went to college for 4 years. Laborious years, I should add. More stress than fun, but it was worthwhile.
The thing is, you won’t even notice that you’re missing something until you see the outside world. Majority of students are made to believe that success is only achievable if you have a degree, and that’s a hard mindset to break especially when it is very obvious that companies will only hire people with degrees.
That is what others would think. It doesn’t really matter what school you’re from, what degree you have, or what connections you have. What matters is you have mad skills that they need. Skills that you can either learn through school or by studying on your own. I find the latter more effective for me. Although I can’t deny that college had its moments that I can only hope to see outside of it.
Pitfalls of Studying alone:
Then again, it depends on your personality. If you’re not the type to sit alone and study in your room, then this is definitely not for you.
What might work is find and form a group of like-minded individuals for group study, group projects, and encouragement.
Pitfalls of going to College:
If you’re lucky, you’ll find a college that weeds out the, well, trash, and just teach you what matters. Although based on what I’ve seen so far, schools have no idea what the industry really wants.
–
The awesomeness of this article is over 9000. :)
One last thing: stickers.
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 05:39
Hey Rean
Thanx a lot for commenting on my article.
I appreciate it a lot mate.
And Your comment is really, really great.
It made me realize more and more about this issue.
You’re Totally Right
People are made to believe: No degree – No Job.
Companies will take You on board to work for them only with a degree.
But the people already start to realize.
That this so called So called Companies boom is over.
People work on projects, not for someone else.
P.s.
I will get your postal address Rean and definitely send You stickers :)
Bruce
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 11:07
I agreee I wen ta kollege an it wuz a waist of time. I lerned me gud from gittin fired from hundredz of jobz that maid me the mad dezigner I am 2day. I got me smart wit no help from ma!
Give me a break. Rean is the only post that doesn’t wax obsequious. I recognize that not everyone speaks native English, but his is also the only post without bad spelling and grammar.
Rean, thanks for that!
I’ve yet to discover, what so many have learned from this post, that is so much more valuable than 4+ years of University education. In my first year in college, I learned that my country was founded by a General, whose best skill was running away from fights. But that is not what I had learned. What I learned is that colleges are free of the state-sponsored constraints of public primary education.
My recommendation, is that you choose a college based on its internship program, unless you live in a socialist country, with a helpful labor placement department. In such a country, there is no need for education, and likely no need for money, even for foreign trade.
Colleges are not alike, and, like it, or not, employers demand them. What you should be learning in school is critical thinking. Frankly, I see much more trolling and disagreement on technical blogs; these traits are considered side-effects of great artists.
Yes, there is some uniformity within classrooms. A critical thinker would know that this supports grading of students. A genius would concoct a plan to dispense with all of this, yet find means to demonstrate to employers of aptitude, or a scheme for universal entrepreneurship.
To misquote John Wanamaker, half of what I learned in college was wasted; the trick is figure out which half.
I have to appreciate that James offers a solution: become a vampire, and I’m glad it makes sense to you. All I know, is that drinking blood leads to gastric distress, and potential felony charges.
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 11:58
Hey Bruce My Friend
Thanx for Your comment.
Great to see You have Your own strong opinion.
But there must be a little misunderstanding then.
Where? You may ask.
Well, first of all I never said college is evil.
I never said technical skills and personal development is no good.
What I said though is that web designer’s talent as such cannot be taught.
Just like musicians talent cannot be taught, where as playing an instrument can.
The same with web designing. Schools will not make your work original or unique.
They will kill your creativity, curiosity and will not let You stay foolish.
But when You have a chance to do so.
You develop Your own unique ways of doing things.
You become original and unique.
Critical thinking is definitely important.
So are skills like being impersonal, knowing how to present Your work.
But those are overall general skills and programs.
You don’t need to study web design in college to get them.
And You should understand that from now on employers will die
Those times are going away, collapsing and disappearing never to come back.
You don’t need to please your employer, show your employer a shiny degree paper.
From now on we will work on projects and for ourselves.
When bringing up our next generation we should forget the word employer.
We should tell them, that there is no employer, unless You support slavery.
From now on our next generation should realize they need no employer or anyone higher.
Because they are the ones who set the rules.
They should learn only one thing:
How to provide their community with something useful and needed.
There will be no industry standards to follow, this is not army after all.
Everyone should stand out and be unique.
And that can be done by not letting Your creativity, curiosity and willingness to be foolish killed.
And Also My friend Bruce
You see this is where somehow, someone has killed your creativity and imagination.
Look how many people are able to understand what Becoming a Vampire means.
But You are just like a robot, just like a manufactured machine.
Machine which knows, true or false, right or wrong, black or white.
If someone says: “Hey let’s stay thirsty for curiosity, as much as vampires are for blood. ”
All You can imagine is someone drinking a glass of real blood.
Well, it is very, very sad I must say.
As You said Yourself: “I’ve yet to discover, what so many have learned from this post.”
Now have a look at the comment counter of this article.
A lot, isn’t it? Quite a big number, right?
And guess what, we all are happy to help You.
Happy to help You develop a better imagination.
Stay Strong My Dear Friend Bruce.
You Will Be Alright, We Will Help You!
Dan
Friday, December 7th, 2012 04:33
Interesting and weird post. Free stickers?
James Richman
Saturday, December 8th, 2012 04:57
Ahoy Dan
Thanx for Your comment mate.
As You can see there are a LOT of people thinking this is a very interesting article.
But weird, heh? :)
What made You feel it’s weird?
It certainly was supposed to be different than your regular articles.
P.s.
I’m sorry to say, that all sets of stickers were gone in first hour.
But I will definitely organize something like this in the future.
So You can support us again.
Alan
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 12:22
I’m totally a Vamp. I’m not a book guy, so for me it only works with video tutorials. One thing about college is that, besides the classes, you can make some contacts there that can be important in the future.
James Richman
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 14:28
Hey Alan
Great to have You here with #WeVamps.
Well, yes I can agree – get some good, valuable contacts.
But At The Same Time Alan
Do You really think it’s worth paying tuition fees.
Spend all that time and put up with being taught stuff You don’t want to.
Just to get some good contacts, who could be important in the future.
Do You actually think college is the only place where You can get contacts?
There’s so, so, so many places.
Don’t You Think So Alan?
Marcus Lynch
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 12:09
Hi James,
I am one of those (60 year old!) university teachers you talk about, but do not totally disagree with what you say. True, the craft skills of web design can only come from engagement in actual projects – what college can do is give you overview and analysis as well as some grounding in sorting good from bad data. Your stuff is interesting, so I’ll have some stickers if I’m not too late, please!
James Richman
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 14:10
Ahoy Marcus
I am really pleased to have teachers here with us too.
I’m sure You are the only teacher here at the moment.
So congrats on that :)
All the respect to You for what You do.
If You Want Me To Be Honest
Even if we are talking about analysis and learning to sort good from bad data.
I still think college can teach us something we couldn’t learn in real world out there.
So What If I asked You Marcus
Just tell me is there one, only one single thing.
That college could teach us, but we couldn’t learn in real life practice.
But most importantly,
This something we would learn would be useful and needed.
P.s.
You are not too late at all. I have last few left.
So your 4 stickers will be sent to You for free :)
I will get in touch with You via email.
To get Your postal address.
Marcus Lynch
Friday, December 7th, 2012 16:03
Hi James,
Of course, it is **possible** to learn anything without going to college – just not necessarily as straightforward, structured or easy a route. It depends on what you want to achieve. Tim has a point – learning design benefits from comparison and contrasting not just of the outputs of designers, but also of the processes and methodologies they use – a craft focus is likely to downplay the importance and relevance of theoretical analysis and understanding of how to generalise from a single design to other projects. It is **possible** to achieve this insight without college – if you read and study (in which case why not go to college and get guidance and structured challenges, not just in coding but in ways of thinking about design).
As an academic, you won’t have expected me to give you a on e-line answer, of course!:-)
Look forward to your email about my snail mail address
Cheers,
Marcus.
James Richman
Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 06:29
Hey Marcus
I really enjoy reading your not-one-liners :)
They certainly make sense.
I have always agreed that tools and skills are needed.
But can be learned somewhere else.
Like presenting skills, impersonal skills, being able to accept criticism.
But webdesigner’s talent as such just cannot be taught.
Just like musicians talent cannot be taught, where as playing an instrument itself can.
Do You Not Think Marcus
That many college programs are very outdated and wouldn’t not teach students what’s trending.
P.s. About The Stickers
I have emailed You to get your postal address ;)
Looking forward to your reply.
Samantha
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 12:40
I really want a sticker :) … please.
James Richman
Thursday, December 6th, 2012 16:20
Lucky You Samantha
Yes, lucky because I have just 2 sets of stickers.
So one is definitely gonna be sent over to You for free.
I’ll get in touch with You via email.
And will get Your postal address.
But Samantha, Can I Ask…
Can ask You are You into web development or more web designing?
Or maybe just some graphic work?