Learning goals for this semester:
I want to learn the foundational structure of building a website from the ground up. My goal is to be able to create a fully customized web page that reflects my own ideas and style, rather than relying on pre-made templates. I'm excited to learn a new coding language and develop the skills to bring my designs to life. I prefer a hands-on, practical learning approach with a clear and structured path to follow.
Assignment List:
| Date Due | Percent | |
|---|---|---|
| Week 2 | Website Analysis | 5% |
| Week 3 | Midterm Worksheet (8 Steps) | 5% |
| Week 3 | Responsive Mockup | 5% |
| Week 3 | CSS Selection Exercise | 5% |
| Week 4 | Grid Exersize | 5% |
| First Quarter Assessment | 25% | |
| Week 5 | Responsive Wireframe | 5% |
| Week 5 | Code Portfolio Front Page | 5% |
| Week 5 | Quiz | |
| Week 6 | Typography Poster | 5% |
| Week 7 | Current Topic Website | 5% |
| Week 8 | Portfolio: Class Presentation | 5% |
| Second Quarter Assessment | 25% | |
| Week 9 | Final: Worksheet | 5% |
| Week 10 | Final: CSS3 Collateral | 5% |
| Week 11 | Final: CSS3 Animatic | 5% |
| Week 12 | Final: HTML/CSS | 5% |
| Week 12 | Final: Modular Navigation | 5% |
| Third Quarter Assessment | 25% | |
| Week 13 | Final: Multimedia | 5% |
| Week 13 | Final: Alternatives | 5% |
| Week 13 | Final: Peer Review | 5% |
| Week 14 | Final: Forms | 5% |
| Week 15 | Alternative | 5% |
| Final Quarter Assessment | 25% | |
| Week 15 | Final: Presentation | 10% |
| Two assignments dropped: | -10% | |
| Total: | 100% | |
| List of sources and services used |
OpenAI Conversation
ME: Hello, I’m a Design and Technology major at Parsons. How can I plan for my future after graduation?
CHATGPT: That’s a great question, and it’s smart you’re thinking about this early. Parsons’ Design and Technology program gives you a versatile foundation...
1. Clarify Your Direction
- What excites you most? (UX/UI, creative coding, motion design, etc.)
- Do you see yourself in industry, freelancing, or research?
- Do you prefer creative expression or problem-solving for clients?
2. Build a Strong Portfolio
- Curate 4–6 strong projects that show process, not just polish.
- Mix individual and collaborative work.
- Good documentation and storytelling matter.
3. Gain Experience Before Graduation
- Try at least one internship per summer.
- Get involved in on-campus labs or side projects.
4. Learn Industry Tools & Stay Flexible
- Master Figma, Unity, Creative Suite, JavaScript, Python, etc.
- Explore new areas like AI, AR/VR, generative design.
5. Network & Build Relationships
- Connect with faculty, alumni, and industry at events.
6. Consider Post-Grad Options
- Jobs: UX/UI designer, creative technologist, etc.
- Freelancing or starting your own studio.
- Grad school or business education.
7. Plan Financially & Practically
- Save early—NYC job hunting takes time.
- Learn about contracts, taxes, and visas (if international).
ME: Yes, but I’m already in my second year.
CHATGPT:
Years 2–4 Roadmap at Parsons
Second Year – Foundation + Exploration
- Sharpen technical and creative skills.
- Start documenting all your projects (even class work).
- Join student labs and try small freelance gigs.
Third Year – Focus + Experience
- Take electives aligned with your interests.
- Apply for internships—summer is critical.
- Refine your portfolio with stronger projects.
Fourth Year – Launch Prep
- Make your capstone project job-ready.
- Curate your top 4–6 projects for different roles.
- Work with Career Services. Apply for jobs early.
General Advice
- Experiment with new tools and tech constantly.
- Share your work online—visibility matters.
- Ask for mentorship and feedback early and often.