Creating and Using Portfolios

Tips for Master Students in…

Why are we doing this assignment? Since our recession it is

harder to find work. A portfolio is a formidable and competitive tool.

Professionals are using them- Photographers, actors, contractors and designers regularly show portfolios… effectively showcasing their work

Employers and educators see portfolios as practical tools and are requiring them to be created and used

Prepare early and set aside time Begin by collecting

what you want to include long before your ready to assemble your portfolio

Realize it is a work in progress and it takes time

Try to avoid pulling it all together at the last minute

Plan your portfolio

Be clear about its function

Address your audience

Decide if you will use it in the future… if so what for

Build it according to your needs

Make it interesting

Be organized

Keep all your materials in one place for when you are ready to assemble your work

Include a table of contents

Use titles and captions

Organize it into sections

Include a summary

Make it your own In addition to your

assignment requirements add items that make your portfolio personal

Showcase your accomplishments- add awards, recommendations, pictures, art or poetry

If you are computer savvy show off those skills

If you like to bedazzle go for it

Assemble your portfolio Begin with a good structure

and clear vision of your goal for the assignment

It is not necessary to spend a lot of money

Try not to assemble it all at once

Make sure you include what is required

Work on it often and add to it until you are happy with the results

Get feedback on your work before presenting

Present your portfolio Rehearse and prepare your

presentation before hand Be kind of others and

present thoroughly yet briefly so others can share

Comment on what makes you proud about your work

Remember this is a showcase of you

When others are presenting theirs be non-judgmental they worked hard

Revise your portfolio often If you decide to

use it for future use revise your information often

Update it and add new information as you acquire new skills or perspectives

Remember a portfolio is a living document

Any Questions???