Latest news with #AdobeIllustrator
Newsweek
4 days ago
- General
- Newsweek
Graphic Designer's Response to Woman's Request for "Free" Work Praised: "She Stormed Off"
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A freelance graphic designer's response to a woman's demand for free labor has been applauded by netizens. The graphic designer and original poster (OP), user MaraRoses_, shared their story on Reddit, explaining that although she loves working from home, she has noticed "how entitled some people are" about her time. According to her post, she had been deep in Adobe Illustrator on a full branding package—work she described as "literally the kind of job that pays my bills for the month"—when her doorbell rang repeatedly. She ignored it at first, only to receive a text that said, "I can see your car. I know you're home." It was a woman from her church, requesting a quick, free flyer design for her daughter's school club. Stock image of a woman looking annoyed at her phone. Stock image of a woman looking annoyed at her phone. Prostock-Studio/iStock/Getty Images Plus "She wanted me to just whip something up real quick because I do this stuff all day anyway," the OP wrote. "Having this kind of issue often, I just told her very politely that I was in the middle of a big client project and didn't have time, but I'd be happy to send her some free Canva templates she could use. "She shuddered, then said, 'You work from home. It's not like you have a real job. You can take a break when you want to'." 'I honestly laughed out loud' She continued, "I just blinked at her and I told her again that this is my actual job and that I don't do unpaid work, especially on a deadline. "She rolled her eyes and said, 'Wow, I didn't know helping a church member was too much to ask. It must feel nice to be so selfish.' "She stormed off, and I honestly laughed out loud. In my head, I was like, 'Helping a church member plus doing free professional work on demand with a tight time range because they feel entitled to your time. Got it'." Reddit users were quick to weigh in and share similar stories, with one remarking, "So it's selfish of you not to do your job for free, but not selfish of her to demand your time and effort for free. Yeah, not how reality works." Another added, "It seems that most of the people who say working from home is not a real job are people who don't work outside the home. "They have no concept, or refuse to believe, that people who work from home have identical responsibilities as the people who work in an office. It truly drives me nuts." "The audacity of that woman! She can go pay a tutor to help her daughter if she really needs the help," one Redditor pointed out. Working For Free Speaking to Newsweek, Branding With Camisha H CEO Camisha Henry (Agyei-Danso) explained, "Being an entrepreneur isn't easy. We give our best—day in and day out—while balancing work, family, and community, often at the expense of our own well-being. "I built my business by offering my talents freely in the beginning, but I've grown it with integrity and care, and that deserves respect. "Before asking for donated services, please consider the person's time and ask respectfully, understanding that sometimes they may have to say no. "To my fellow entrepreneurs: never feel guilty for valuing your time and your brand. You matter. Your time is precious. And the world needs your gifts." AI Interference The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) has intensified frustrations for designers, whose work is frequently mistaken for being machine-generated. In a March 2025 Newsweek article, a designer took to Reddit to post, "16 years as a graphic designer, 8 years as a photographer, ruined by AI." Their post featured their original artwork alongside comments accusing them of using AI. Ben Colman, CEO of Reality Defender, told Newsweek, "AI can now produce design work that appears professional while human designers with decades of experience are simultaneously having their authenticity questioned." Despite the challenges, this OP ended her story with humor: "I don't know if her daughter ever got that flyer. And I hope to see her in church tomorrow." Newsweek has contacted MaraRoses_ for comment via Reddit. Newsweek's "What Should I Do?" offers expert advice to readers. If you have a personal dilemma, let us know via life@ We can ask experts for advice on relationships, family, friends, money and work, and your story could be featured on WSID at Newsweek. To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, click here.
Business Insider
04-05-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
I landed my dream job at Adobe after applying to the company 12 times. A video cover letter helped me stand out.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Curtis Ying, a 30-year-old user experience designer at Adobe who lives in California. The following has been edited for length and clarity. Adobe did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. In January 2023, I was laid off from my product designer job. I had a few months of severance and some savings, so it didn't feel like the world was crashing down. Rather than immediately applying to various employers, I decided to focus on landing a job at one company in particular: Adobe. About a month before I was laid off, my friend who works at Adobe gave me a tour of the company's headquarters in San Jose, California. I fell in love with graphic design after my cousin taught me how to use Adobe Illustrator, and I was already using the company's products on a regular basis. Working at Adobe became a dream job of mine. After I was laid off, landing a job at Adobe became my top priority. I figured the best way to make this happen was to do something unique in my application that would help me stand out: creating a video cover letter. For about a month, I only applied to one position — a role at Adobe that I didn't get — while I worked on the video. After finishing the video in February, I kept a close eye on Adobe's job postings. Over a six-month period, I applied to 10 Adobe jobs — including some I was probably underqualified for — and was rejected from all of them. Then, in December 2023, I applied for my 12th Adobe role of the year — a user experience designer position — and landed an interview. After going through the process, I accepted an offer for a full-time contract role with a six-figure salary. Thirteen months after my layoff, I'd accomplished my goal. Video cover letters can "humanize your application" I first became intrigued by video cover letters after seeing a YouTube video in which someone sang about why they wanted to work at a particular company. They ended up getting the job, and the video left a strong impression on me. I decided to create my own video cover letter to include with my Adobe applications. In the video, which ran about a minute and a half, I talked about how I got interested in graphic and UX design, my education and work experience, the design tools and techniques I knew well, a few fun facts about myself, and why I wanted to work at Adobe. While I didn't have a professional microphone, I recorded myself using a Canon DSLR camera set up on a tripod. I edited the footage with Adobe Premiere Pro. I used two different methods to include my video cover letter in my application. First, I uploaded the video to YouTube as an unlisted video and hyperlinked it at the top of my résumé with the text "watch my video cover letter." I also embedded a snapshot of the video in a PDF titled "video cover letter," added the same hyperlink, and attached that document as well. Some people told me not to focus exclusively on Adobe — that I shouldn't put all my eggs in one basket. But I was hesitant to change my approach. Applying to other jobs felt a little like admitting that landing a job at Adobe might not be possible. Several months into my job search, I started applying to some companies other than Adobe using a second video cover letter I made that was more generic. But Adobe remained my target employer. In addition to creating a customized video cover letter, I pursued a second strategy: networking with Adobe employees. In June 2023, I posted my Adobe video cover letter on LinkedIn. I wasn't sure how it would be received, but it proved to be a good decision, as it helped me grow my Adobe network. Even as the rejections came in, I felt I'd built so many connections at Adobe that it was probably easier to land a job there than anywhere else — and that kept me motivated. I think my video cover letter definitely helped me land a job at Adobe. The hiring manager I interviewed with told me it gave them a sense of my personality and helped me stand out among other applicants. Posting the video on LinkedIn also led to some connections that I believe boosted my application. I don't think a video cover letter has to be as highly produced as mine to be helpful for job seekers. It doesn't have to have a beautiful background or the perfect lighting, but if you can be concise and speak naturally, I think it can work. One of the reasons I highly advocate for video cover letters is that they humanize your application, which is typically just lines of text in a résumé and cover letter. When you're competing with sometimes thousands of applicants in a challenging job market, I think having a video cover letter can help you stand out. I see absolutely no downsides to it.
Time Business News
30-04-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
How to Turn Your Laser Cutter Hobby into a Thriving Business
Are you passionate about laser cutting and dreaming of turning your hobby into a profitable venture? You're in the right place! Starting a laser cutter business can be an exciting and rewarding journey. Whether you're already dabbling in laser cutting side hustle or looking to start a laser business from scratch, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to monetize your skills and build a thriving business. A laser cutter business offers numerous advantages. It allows you to express your creativity, work on diverse projects, and enjoy the flexibility of being your own boss. Plus, the demand for custom laser-cut products is on the rise, making it a lucrative opportunity. Before diving into the world of laser cutting profits, it's crucial to master some essential skills: Design Software Proficiency: Familiarize yourself with design software like Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or Inkscape to create and edit designs for laser cutting. Material Knowledge: Understand the different materials you can work with, such as wood, acrylic, leather, and metal, and how they react to laser cutting. Machine Operation: Learn how to operate and maintain your laser cutter to ensure optimal performance and safety. Marketing and Sales: Develop strategies to promote your products and reach your target audience effectively. Here are some creative ways to monetize your laser cutting skills: Create and sell custom products like jewelry, home decor, and personalized gifts. The possibilities are endless, and custom items often fetch a higher price due to their uniqueness. Offer your laser cutting services to other businesses. This could include creating branded merchandise, signage, or prototypes for product development. Share your knowledge by conducting workshops and training sessions. This not only generates additional revenue but also establishes you as an expert in the field. Sell digital designs that others can use with their laser cutters. This is a passive income stream that can reach a global audience. Curate subscription boxes with laser-cut items tailored to specific themes or interests, providing a steady income stream. Investing in a reliable laser cutter is the foundation of your business. Research and choose a machine that suits your needs and budget. Create a portfolio showcasing your best work. This will help you attract clients and demonstrate your capabilities. Outline your business goals, target market, pricing strategy, and marketing plan. A solid business plan will guide your decisions and help you stay on track. Connect with other laser cutting enthusiasts and businesses. Collaborations can lead to new opportunities and help you grow your business. Leverage social media platforms to showcase your products, engage with your audience, and drive sales. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are great for visual content. Sell your products on online marketplaces like Etsy, eBay, or your own website to reach a wider audience. Participate in local events and craft fairs to showcase your products and connect with potential customers in person. What is a laser cutter business and how does it work? A laser cutter business involves using a laser machine to cut, engrave, or etch designs onto various materials. This business model allows you to create custom products, offer B2B services, and even sell digital designs for others to use. What are the initial costs of starting a laser cutter business? The initial costs can vary but typically include the purchase of a laser cutter machine, design software, materials for your products, and marketing expenses. It's important to research and invest in quality equipment that suits your needs and budget. How can I promote my laser cutter business effectively? You can promote your laser cutter business through social media marketing, participating in local events and craft fairs, and selling your products on online marketplaces like Etsy or your own website. Networking and collaborating with other businesses can also lead to new opportunities. What are some profitable niches within the laser cutter business? Some profitable niches include creating custom products like jewelry and home decor, offering B2B services for branded merchandise and signage, conducting workshops and training sessions, selling digital designs, and curating subscription boxes with laser-cut items. How can I ensure the success of my laser cutter business? To ensure success, focus on mastering essential skills like design software proficiency and material knowledge. Develop a solid business plan, build a portfolio showcasing your best work, and continuously network and collaborate with others in the industry. Dedication, creativity, and effective promotion are key to building a thriving laser cutter business. Turning your laser cutter hobby into a thriving business requires dedication, skill, and a bit of creativity. By mastering the essential skills, exploring various monetization ideas, and promoting your business effectively, you can build a successful laser cutter business. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey today and turn your passion into profits! TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
02-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
LSU Shreveport Dual Enrollment Day: High school students see campus culture
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – High school students who are currently taking college classes through a university in Shreveport recently visited the campus for Dual Enrollment Day. Louisiana State University Shreveport hosted 125 students at the event held on Friday, Feb. 28. Students visiting LSU Shreveport on Friday had the opportunity to experience the physical campus and visualize what life might be like if they continued taking classes there. During the event, groups of students designed art using Adobe Illustrator in the Collaboratory. They played games, learned about potential careers, toured the library, and learned about campus housing. Ishmael Swiney is a junior at Captain Shreve High School. He's currently taking history and French classes through LSU Shreveport. 'It's been an amazing experience because I'm going to love to experience the freedom that college will bring,' said Swiney. 'It's been great to see what LSUS has to offer.' 'We wanted students to walk away with an understanding of what being in college means, what that experience is like,' said Dr. Elisabeth Liebert, who serves as associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences and academic director of the Dual Enrollment and Academic Excellence programs. 'We wanted them to create those connections to our campus in the morning sessions before diving into academic immersion in the afternoon. One of our other goals is to really kindle a sense of excitement about the opportunities that college offers.' Jennie Flynn-McKevitt, the director of career services at LSU Shreveport, encouraged students to pick a career path by considering what 'challenges' they wanted to work on. More than 550 high school students are enrolled at LSU Shreveport through dual enrollment and academic excellence programs. That number has almost doubled in the past three years, potentially due to a push for students to graduate from high school with either college credit or a technical certification. Dual enrollment and academic excellence programs are growing in Northwest Louisiana. In the past 18 months, LSU Shreveport has partnered with Simsboro High, Plain Dealing High, and expanded class availability at North Caddo High. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
15-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Billionaire Investor David Tepper Dumped Adobe and Acquired This Semiconductor Stock. Should You Follow?
If you haven't achieved a net worth north of $1 billion by wisely investing in stocks, there's probably a lot that you can learn from the handful of folks who have. One fund manager most investors could learn a lot from is David Tepper, the billionaire who manages the Appaloosa fund. It's delivered an average annual return of more than 28% since its inception in 1993. In the fourth quarter of 2024, Tepper closed an Adobe (NASDAQ: ADBE) position worth more than $100 million. Also in the fourth quarter, Appaloosa increased its stake in Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX) by 1.15 million shares. Tepper's track record speaks volumes about his ability to pick stocks that outperform, but even the best fund managers make decisions they later regret. Here's a closer look at recent results from these two companies to see if selling Adobe or acquiring Lam Research could be a smart move for your portfolio. Shares of the Creative Cloud subscription provider are down about 33% from the peak they set all the way back in 2021. The stock hasn't performed well, but its software business keeps growing. In its fiscal year that ended on Nov. 29, 2024, total revenue rose 11% year over year. Adobe's bottom line is rising more quickly than sales. Adjusted earnings rose 14.6% in fiscal 2024 to $18.42 per share. GAAP earnings that don't adjust for the $1 billion reverse termination fee Adobe incurred when abandoning its pursuit of Figma, rose just 4.6% to $12.36 per share. Adobe's main advantage is a strong network effect, not necessarily terrific software. Last October, Photopea, a web-based Photoshop competitor, announced it served users over 1 billion files over the previous 12-month period. Photopea was developed by one guy working alone and is free to use. Four years of Photoshop access will run you more than $1,000. There are plenty of less expensive alternatives to Adobe's most popular products, but completing projects with them can be a challenge. For example, the proprietary file type Adobe Illustrator employs is ubiquitous among professional illustrators. As a result, most print shops don't know what to do with an EPS file even though this file type is used by dozens of competing vector art applications. Adobe's heavy investment in generative artificial intelligence (AI) functions could make its products stickier and offset non-professional users who are no longer willing to pay for expensive, recurring subscriptions. With a strong network effect likely to keep subscribers on board for the foreseeable future, selling this stock now doesn't seem like the right move. Lam Research is a member of a tiny group of companies that produce advanced etch and deposition equipment used to manufacture semiconductors. Laying down billions of tiny transistors on a silicon wafer requires an incredible level of precision now that they're spaced just a few nanometers apart. Lam Research is in an even more enviable position than most of its peers because it specializes in processes that stack semiconductor components on top of each other. Lam's verticalization expertise allows it to produce equipment used to manufacture high bandwidth memory (HBM), which is an increasingly important component of AI processing. The market for HBM chips is expected to soar from $4 billion in 2023 to $130 billion by 2029. In 2024, Lam Research grew adjusted earnings by 23% to $3.36 per share, and investors can reasonably expect more gains in the years ahead. That's because it doesn't necessarily matter which memory chip manufacturer goes on to gain a leading share of the HBM memory chip space. An extremely limited number of etch and deposition equipment manufacturers with verticalization expertise means most of the winners, and losers will end up buying equipment from Lam Research. Lam Research's equipment sales could surge on the back of demand for AI, but the market hasn't seemed to notice yet. At recent prices, you can scoop up shares of this well-positioned picks-and-shovels business for just 21.9 times forward-looking earnings expectations. Following Tepper's lead in this case seems like a very smart move. Before you buy stock in Lam Research, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the for investors to buy now… and Lam Research wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $829,128!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor's total average return is 948% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 176% for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list. Learn more » *Stock Advisor returns as of February 7, 2025 Cory Renauer has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Adobe and Lam Research. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Billionaire Investor David Tepper Dumped Adobe and Acquired This Semiconductor Stock. Should You Follow? was originally published by The Motley Fool
