Welcome to Graphic Design Fundamentals, an OPTIONAL mini-course available through the Social Media & Marketing Journey! In today’s visually-driven world, effective communication is about more than just words. This course is designed to provide budding writers with essential graphic design skills to enhance their storytelling and engage their audience. Through a blend of hands-on projects and discussions, students will learn how to create visually appealing content that complements their writing.
Learning Objectives
- Identify and explain the fundamental principles of design, including balance, contrast, alignment, repetition, and proximity.
- Analyze and apply typography principles, including font selection, hierarchy, and readability in design projects.
- Develop skills in visual storytelling by creating designs that convey messages and evoke emotions.
- Recognize the importance of audience and purpose in design, tailoring projects to meet the needs and expectations of specific target groups.
- Plan and execute a complete design project from concept to final execution, demonstrating the design process and decision-making.
Requirements
Social Media and Marketing Journey:
Coursework
As you progress through each lesson, make sure to press complete before moving on to the next.
The Graphic Design mini-course is OPTIONAL.
Complete all sections in the Social Media & Marketing: Behind the Screen Course. You also have access to 2 optional mini-courses that will be helpful for your final project. See the Asynchronous Coursework tab for more information.
Mentorship
You are in one of the following pair types. You pair type is listed on your GWN Portal profile.
- Mentor/Mentee: Meet at least 2 times per month and, as a pair, attend all of the following engagement events listed below.
- Peer-to-Peer: Meet at least 2 times per month and, as a pair, attend all of the following engagement events listed below.
Engagement Events
The following events are required for all Social Media & Marketing mentees and mentors:
- Tuesday, July 15 at 6-7:30 PM ET – Journey Meeting
- Tuesday, August 12 at 6-7:15 PM ET – Career Chat
- Saturday, September 20 at 3-4:30 PM ET – Mentee Showcase
If you cannot make an event, let your Staff Lead know in advance. Your Staff Lead will help you find an alternative event to attend.
Submissions
- Develop and present a portfolio of marketing assets based on skills learned in the Journey engagement events and through the Course.
- All mentees in the Social Media and Marketing Journey are expected to create a 5-7 minute presentation.
- The final presentation and celebration will be on September 20.
Engagement Dates
- Tuesday, July 15 at 6-7:30 PM ET – Journey Meeting
- Tuesday, August 12 at 6-7:15 PM ET – Career Chat
- Saturday, September 20 at 3-4:30 PM ET – Mentee Showcase
Asynchronous Coursework
You must complete all sections in the Social Media & Marketing: Behind the Screen Course:
- Getting Creative with Social Media
- Data Storytelling
- The Marvelous Multiverse of Marketing
You also have access to 2 optional mini-courses that will be helpful for your final project:
Graphic Design Fundamentals
Video Fundamentals
Submissions
In order to submit your final presentation, you will need to send your slides to your Staff Lead by September 19. Your Staff Lead will provide you with instructions for how to submit this.
