Life after illustration: Creating a Graphic Design career.

[Gvolution]

Hi Guys,

I graduated in 2007 with a Degree in Illustration and PgDip in Creative Advertising.

Now i'm hoping to apply the skills i learnt in higher education, in Graphic Design. I've done a bit of reading around the contextual background and i understand its role and application in society. However, with no formal graphic design training i'm a bit stumped as to how i should go constructing a portfolio.

My intention was to produce a body of work that includes the following:

-Book covers/posters
-Adverts including adshel posters/ print for magazine
-Logo and rebranding work.
- Self promotion material (such as a website to house folio) and business cards.

I have no graphic design briefs, so I'm a little unclear as to the specifics
surrounding the creation of the above material. (if anyone knows of a resource where i can pick up realistic briefs- that would be great).

Is it permissable to use any of the old 2007/8 D&AD briefs as the starting point for creating work? (Using D&AD material was strictly forbidden on my Creative Ad course).

Any help or suggestions would be much appreciated!

Thanks