Blog #1
Moving your online presence from platforms like Google Sites or Blogger to a more permanent portfolio site can feel overwhelming but is an essential step for anyone serious about showcasing their work. This transition is not just about changing websites, it’s about elevating your professional image and gaining control over your online narrative. Starting my ePortfolio has been equal parts scary and exciting, a real learning-by-doing moment. I wanted this first blog to be honest about the process, the small wins, and the things that still make me sigh. If you’re thinking about building a more permanent site (moving off Google Sites or Blogger), here’s what I did, what helped, what still frustrates me, and a few practical tips to make the journey easier.
Why Move from Google Sites or Blogger?
Both Google Sites and Blogger are excellent platforms for beginners. They are user-friendly and free, which is appealing for many, but there comes a time when these platforms might limit your potential. Perhaps you’re ready for custom domains, better analytics, or more sophisticated design options. These limitations often motivate people to seek a more robust solution.
In my journey, I found myself facing frustration after realizing the lack of customization options on Google Sites. While they offer quick solutions, the long-term growth of my personal goals requires a more flexible platform.
What steps I took:
- I explored other blogs and ePortfolios to get a feel for layout, voice, and what resonates. That helped me see possibilities I had not considered.
- I sketched a simple site map: Home, About, Projects, Blog, Resources, Contact. Keeping structure small at first made decisions less overwhelming. I honestly watched so many YouTube videos and leaned on my fellow classmates.
- I chose a platform/template that felt flexible and professional, then focused on content (what I wanted to share) before perfecting visuals.
- I created the first pages (About, Education, CCMR work highlights) and wrote this initial post as a way to launch — content first, polish later.
- I tested mobile view, added links to resources, and set up a basic contact form.
Tips & tricks for someone starting out
- Start small. Publish one solid page and one blog post , you can always add more.
- Borrow ideas. Exploring other blogs is one of the fastest ways to learn what you like and what you don’t.
- Content before design: decide what you want people to read first, then choose visuals that support it.
- Use templates and plugins for things like contact forms, SEO basics, and image optimization so you don’t reinvent the wheel.
- Back up often and keep a simple checklist for publishing (links, alt text, mobile check).
- Ask a friend or colleague for quick feedback before you hit publish — a second pair of eyes is invaluable.
What frustrated me vs. what I’m proud of
Frustrations: This part was hard for me. I have no blogging experience and didn’t know where to start. I overthink school-related tasks and stress about doing my best (perfectionist alert). Deciding what to share and worrying I would “get it wrong” held me back longer than it should have. Technical choices — domain vs. subdomain, templates, and accessibility settings — also is very confusing.
Proud moments: I’m proud that I pushed past the paralysis and published something. Exploring other blogs gave me direction. I loved shaping content that reflects my values as a CCMR Coordinator and ADL student, and I’m proud of the small, student-centered resources I’ve added already. My ePortfolio reflects my personality and professional journey, showcasing my skills effectively. However, I still find myself frustrated with certain technical aspects. Finding the right resources and support can alleviate these frustrations over time.
Reflecting on My Journey
Transitioning to a permanent ePortfolio site was a mix of excitement and frustration. When I finally launched my ePortfolio, I felt pride in the journey itself. Every challenge I faced taught me something valuable, and the satisfaction of having a well-organized space for my work was exhilarating.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Your ePortfolio
As you embark on this journey to establish a permanent ePortfolio site, remember to remain patient with yourself. There will be hurdles, but persistence pays off. Continually seek inspiration from other professionals in your field, and don’t hesitate to adjust your ePortfolio design as your career evolves.
By following the steps above, sharing your personal journey, and implementing continuous improvements, you’ll create an engaging ePortfolio that stands the test of time.
Embrace the process, enjoy the journey, and take pride in the professional image you are building!