When you’re in college, you’re going to be doing a lot of work. Usually, this work is what you can use to help land that coveted job once you graduate.

But, showing too much of your work can actually hurt you in the long run. Plus, if you don’t show your work off, it won’t matter!

If you need help putting together an awesome portfolio, we’ve got your back!

Gather all of your work

This may seem like an easy step, but might be surprised at how much stuff you end up with!

One easy way to start gathering your work is to create a new folder on your laptop labeled “Portfolio.” As you start sifting through your computer, flash drives and hard drives, copy over any files you have that showcase your work.

Over the course of three or four years, you will have worked on many projects that would be great to showcase. Don’t be surprised if you find a digital mountain of projects and files to sort through!

Eliminate the bad work

Now that you have gathered your work, you need to start sorting through it. Not every single piece of work that you have done should go into your portfolio. Only let the best pieces shine through!

Find a way to mark each file to know what you want to keep or lose. Either color code or mark each file in a way that distinguishes what should definitely go in, what is a possibility, and what is a hard pass.

Weed out the “good” work

When you’ve gotten rid of the work that should definitely not be included in the portfolio, then you have the harder task of weeding out the good work.

Remember, only the best of the best should be included. If it’s simply good, it’s not enough for your portfolio.

This is an important and difficult step. The important thing to do is separate yourself from your work. Look at it objectively and ask whether you would hire someone with this piece of work.

If you’re having a hard time distancing yourself, turn toward trusted people in your life to help. Ask them to evaluate your work honestly. Then, listen to their criticism carefully. It’s not a critique of you. It will help give you clarity as you move forward in building the best portfolio you can.

Build it and share it

There are tons of ways to create a cool portfolio.

Websites like Wix and Squarespace are easy web builders that will do all of the hard work for you.

Once your online portfolio is built, share it on social media! Ask for your friends and followers to critique it. There will be some great feedback that will help you refine your site and make it stand out.

If you want to make a print portfolio, ask a graphic design friend to help you set up the document correctly. Places like Staples and OfficeMax will then have great options for you to print and get a professional-grade portfolio in your hands.

Good luck with your portfolio building, and have a fantastic year!