Published by Leonardo Calcagno
Who are you:
I am a student, and graphic designer. I love photography, hand drawn type, and tacos.
Your current job:
I work as an in-house designer for the Government of Canada. I also do freelance art on the side for local musicians and events.
In which city are you located?
Ottawa, Ontario
A word to define what kind of worker you are:
Excited
What tools are essential to your life (app, software, etc..)
My Macbook, Adobe Creative suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Dreamweaver, After Effects), my drawing tablet, Dropbox and GitHub.
What does your office space look like?
Bright, cozy, and usually covered in eraser bits. I have a small desk, it forces me to be organized.
What kind of music do you listen when you are working?
Beyonce, Grizzly Bear, Flying Lotus, Do Make Say Think, Nicolas Jaar – my music varies a lot. It depends on what kind of project I’m working on.
Do you have a way to organize your day to maximize your work?
Make lists, take breaks, and switch projects.
What tips would you give to improve productivity?
Clear your mind, clear your desk, ingest caffeine, listen to music, and keep focus.
You’re better than your colleagues to:
Work fast, and stay concentrated. When I get into the zone I stay there for a long time.
What is the best advice anyone has given you?
Be confident. Take risks and do what you want.
What is your best tip for saving time?
Wake up early and make lists for everything! Work, school, grocery shopping, whatever – it really helps you prioritize.
What is your routine start and end of the day?
Wake up early, have a cup of green tea, go to school/work. I usually end my days working on projects and watching horror movies.
Aside from your computer and your phone, what gadget can you not you go without?
My camera, and black felt tip pens.