An essential tip for you is to select the right college at the outset. This includes making sure to select the best mix of classes that will aid you in thoroughly understanding the field of graphic design. For example, choose a college that is an accredited institution that an organization or association specifically geared toward assisting graphic designers recognizes. Organizations such as the National Association of Schools of Art and Design offer suggestions for colleges best suited for the educational needs of art students.
After you have been accepted into a graphic design program, make sure you take classes and coursework in a wide assortment of subject areas to enhance your overall skill set within various artistic mediums. Graphic designers deal with multiple media formats; as a result, they need knowledge about multiple subjects. For example, a graphic designer studying to work in advertising would be best suited to take advertising and marketing classes in addition to the standard graphic design courses.
Maintain outside interests that broaden your overall knowledge. For example, if you're interested in a career in media as a graphic designer, then look for groups to join such as student chapters of media organizations. Join and actively participate in associations and student unions for college majors studying graphic design, such as AGIA.
Talk to professors, teachers and counselors about where to find internship opportunities to further your studies via real-world experience. Internships for burgeoning and potential graphic designers can be found at an assortment of locations. Offer your services and skills to nonprofit organizations, in addition to traditional for-profit companies. Practice your design technique and get in the habit of keeping and continually maintaining a portfolio of your work.