The Digital Multimedia program at Buchholz High School is a 4-year elective program open to all BHS students who love to learn. In this program, you will discover a wide variety of exciting 21st century digital skills in a hands-on, project based learning environment. Absolutely no experience whatsoever is needed!

Even if you aren’t comfortable with computers yet, or you think you’re not creative, you can be successful in this program! There is something here for everyone. Read on to find out more about what the Multimedia program can do for you.

The Introduction to Multimedia class is offered every year and is available to students in 9th – 12th grades. There is no prerequisite or application required for this class.

This class offers experience in the basics of digital design, using programs like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator to edit photos and create digital art. In addition, students will learn to use different applications for their designs in workshops, such as pressing custom T-shirts and 3D printing models. Near the end of each semester, students will take a certification exam for the Photoshop and Illustrator, which can be put on a job resume or help the student qualify for certain scholarships (see Benefits below). No payment is needed for the exams, retakes, or Adobe programs.

Students who have already received Photoshop and Illustrator certifications, especially in middle school, are still encouraged to register for this class before moving onto advanced. The level of projects they will complete in this class will better prepare them for real industry-level work and help them build a portfolio to use in college and job applications.

Each year, many students make artwork and designs that suit them. Not just in the Introduction to Multimedia class, but in the other Advanced Classes that are offered after taking Introduction to Multimedia. From video production to professional 3D modeling, the Advanced classes provide other outlets for creativity to see what the student wants to do. See the Program Overview box for more information.

Building a Portfolio

A portfolio is a collection of designs and artwork made by one person. While completing assignments is very important for the grade, the portfolio is also a great reason to participate in the class. If the student wishes to pursue a career in digital or graphic design, a portfolio containing the projects completed in class would be very helpful for providing a direct reason why the student should be hired or accepted.

Scholarships & Universities

In addition to certification exams, Adobe offers many scholarships and other programs for students who are passionate about graphic design. These include the Adobe Design Circle Scholarship, the Adobe Women-in-Technology Scholarships, and Adobe Creative Residency Community Fund. Further information can be found here on their website. There are also universities specifically for graphic design, such as Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida.

Career Experience

Class projects work very similarly to most jobs in graphic design: the teacher requests a project with specific requirements, and the student creates the project as they see fit within the rules. While this looks limiting, it can help students find tricks to complete the project and save time. These tricks carry over as experience in graphic design, where the student (if they choose to go into design) has to complete projects with specific requirements.