1. Computing & Technology

Use Your Contacts in the Corporate World to Move into Freelancing

Share Your Story: How I Became a Web Designer

From careytech

Use Your Contacts in the Corporate World to Move into Freelancing

one-stop webstudio creating a professional web presence

How did you become a Web designer?

Studied and practiced print graphics in the 80s, became a software engineer in the 90s. Practiced web design/development for informal-but-serious projects starting in '95 and onward. By 2004 my directors position allowed me to drive sizable corporate web projects. When an international book contract came up in 2008, I left the corporate world to focus on the book, and now that I'm done with the book, I'm working independently consulting as a web architect.

Are you self-taught or did you get a degree?

Earned a masters in software engineering. Graphics work developed through my friendship with a success graphic artist, years of analyzing designs I saw, and years of hands-on application from print through many web projects.

Tips and Tricks

  • No serious regrets. If I could change, I think in my corporate work I would have initiated a quicker transaction from software engineering to more web-centered work.

What University or School did you attend?

University of St. Thomas (St. Paul, Minnesota)

What degree or certification did you receive?

M.S. Software Engineering

How long ago did you become a Web designer?

personally in 1995, corporately in 2004, independent in 2009

Tell us a little about your Web design business (+URL)

I left a directors position in the corporate world to offer my same services as a consultant. I consult with clients helping them determine what they need, then I orchestrate all the parts to make it happen. A one-stop shop for the client: design, customization through coding, photography, writing

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.