We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alvin Lin a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alvin, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
My resilience comes from many experiences that taught me to be comfortable with the unknown and to find growth in setbacks. Early on, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone by taking acting classes and going to commercial auditions. I initially did this to overcome my fear of public speaking, but it was also a way to learn resilience. Facing constant rejections was challenging, but it taught me to look inward, adjust, and try again. Eventually, I landed some exciting gigs, including ones with Coca-Cola and McDonald’s. This experience taught me that resilience isn’t about avoiding setbacks; it’s about embracing them as part of the journey. This mindset has carried over into my design work—whether I’m learning a new tool, iterating on a project, or facing a rejection, I know that each “no” is simply a step toward growth.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a graphic designer passionate about brand identity, packaging, and digital design, with a focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and storytelling. My work reflects my belief that design can forge meaningful connections and positively shape perceptions. Whether I’m working on a rebrand for a nonprofit like the LA LGBT Center or crafting sustainable packaging for a farm-to-table brand, I aim to create designs that resonate deeply and authentically with audiences.
One of the most exciting aspects of my work is the exploration and research phase, which lets me dive into each project’s unique identity and voice. For example, with packaging design, I don’t just focus on aesthetics but also on how it functions for the user and its environmental impact. Currently, I’m working as an intern at the Recording Academy, where I’ve had the rewarding experience of collaborating on high-profile projects. This role has allowed me to apply my design approach to impactful work in a dynamic environment, further refining my skills and perspective.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Being comfortable with the unknown – Stepping out of my comfort zone has been invaluable. As a designer, I often face ambiguity, whether in a project’s direction or learning new tools. Embracing this has allowed me to grow creatively and explore new perspectives.
A solid research and design process – I believe that great design is grounded in thorough research and a clear process. Understanding the background and purpose behind each project enables me to create work that’s not only visually appealing but deeply aligned with its goals.
Belief in oneself – Like many designers, I’ve felt imposter syndrome, especially in new environments or challenging projects. Learning to trust in my process and skills has been essential. I’d advise new designers to build confidence in their work and remember that every project, no matter the outcome, is part of their growth.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
This past year has been transformative for me. I spent three months in Berlin, which had a profound impact on my design perspective. Berlin’s bold, unapologetic aesthetics and experimental culture inspired me to become more adventurous with my work. I also began my first design internship at the Recording Academy, which has been a big step out of my school environment. Collaborating on high-profile projects has strengthened my understanding of how design functions in a real-world context and sharpened my ability to work within brand guidelines.
Additionally, I’ve been preparing my portfolio website and interviewing with various companies, which has allowed me to step back, examine my work, and refine my identity as a designer. This process has helped me clarify my goals and aspirations, marking a significant period of personal and professional growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alvinlindesign.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvin-lin-design/
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