Need graphic design support but don’t know where to start?
From simple social media graphics to a full-on rebrand, design students at the University of Reading are on hand to support local businesses and charities this summer, and beyond. Their ‘Real Jobs’ scheme gives students on their BA Graphic Communication course the chance to take their creativity out of the studio and into the world, working with real clients and solving real problems. If you log your project with them, they’ll assemble the right mix of talent to meet your needs. Their students have skills in print design, web design, illustration, complex information design, publications, animation and more. Working under the supervision of one of The University of Reading tutors, they can rise to any design challenge. Recent projects have included work for Reading-based Cianna’s Smile, a rebrand for Green Health Thames Valley, and a new set of maps for the Cowsey in Whitley.
They are open for new clients all year round, but there is particular need at the start of each academic year. If you’ve been looking for a cost-effective way to run a design project that could be transformative for your organization, get in touch and they will do all they can to help. There is no fee for the service, but we do ask for a small donation towards our student fund. Clients gain from high quality finished work, but also from the experience of working with (and learning from) bright young design thinkers. Their students of course gain even more – working with professionals, founders and experts in all fields gives them incredible portfolio and CV-building experience, and sharpens their understanding of how design operates outside of a university campus.
And we get amazing feedback like this …
“Mya and Jemima were outstanding. Whilst we had a clear vision, how that was to be actualised was hard for us to finally get agreed on. But they listened, they responded to our feedback and they adapted. They designed without ego, they introduced strong ideas and guided us through the process really well. The identity they have ultimately created for us is loved by the team and sets us up for our future.” Sol Kawage, The Long Road Foundation
“Rebecca has acted professionally throughout, responding in a timely manner to all of our correspondence. Her communication skills both via email and in person/on Teams have been excellent. Each time we have provided feedback she has listened carefully, considered this and improved the design accordingly. I have no doubt that the final visual device will meet the brief and be perfect for our clinic.” Katherine Pritchard (C-STAR Paediatric clinic lead)
You can see more examples of recent projects on their website, or find out more here.
If these scheme sounds useful, we’d love to hear from you!
The Real Jobs Team (James Lloyd, Sara Chapman and Maddi Almond)
Department of Typography & Graphic Communication, University of Reading
