I'm putting together my portfolio to apply for junior designer roles, and I'm considering asking for a graphic design portfolio review. The thing is, my work is a mix of student projects and a couple of small freelance jobs. I'm worried it's not cohesive enough or that the feedback will just be to redo everything, which isn't really an option right now.
Totally doable. Think of your portfolio as a small narrative rather than a dump of everything. Pick three projects that show different skills, present each as a mini case study with a quick before and after and the value you delivered, and place student work in its own section so it is clear these are early projects. Keep a consistent grid colors and typography to give the whole thing a cohesive feel even if the projects are varied.
Ask for focused feedback not a full redo. Include a short note asking reviewers to rate clarity of problem process and impact for each piece plus how cohesive the overall set feels. If they flag cohesion propose a simple fix like a shared style guide and a one line story that ties the projects together rather than trying to make every piece perform the same role.
Two quick moves arrange the three strongest pieces first and use a simple context process result template. For student work frame it as learning outcomes and for freelance work emphasize deliverables and business impact. End with a short next steps plan so you show you are continuing to build your style not just resting on older work.
I would resist the urge to rework everything at once. You can keep your current work but add a header in each project card that explains the target audience and problem solved in one line. A light design system one set of fonts one color palette one grid will make it feel more cohesive without rewriting projects.
Think about the kind of job you want. If you aim for branding roles highlight identity work and how you approached brand voice. If you want product design emphasize research driven decisions and usability outcomes. Tailor your portfolio to the role even if some pieces do not fit perfectly.
Offer a brief what I would improve next note under each project. That shows self awareness and ambition without asking for a full redo. Also consider a short portfolio PDF with one page per project that you can send quickly to recruiters.
If you want I can help you pick three projects and draft three mini case studies and a short cover note that ties them together. Share a link or screenshot and I will tailor it for the roles you are aiming for.