Portfolio Help

So im competing in the Colorado State FBLA Web Portfolio competition for a scholarship, i won my regionals with my design but it was a weak layout, i really need advice. I don't know how what I should make for the State competition. I was debating on doing some work on my current layout (see bottom) but I think making a new layout would probably be best.
Ideas and suggestions are greatly appreciated.

(EDIT) this is what ive come up with, i think it looks good but i need some harsh criticism and tips..

Version 2

 

it looks kinda boring, try other colors, somwhat brighter colors

 

I figured that someone would say that. Thanks for your feedback.

 

yup lacks colour, too much text, its needs borken up into to text with less writing or something. navigation bar is very plain try and jaz it up a bit? and maybe something with the background?

You have a good structure there tho and with work i'm sure it can look really good

 

I'd be pretty shocked if you won with that.

I agree with Northern (the guy with the awesome logo)

I'd also add the "my portfolio" type is terrible and also the position of it.

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If your struggling to break up some of the text, I always find using BOTH a "Welcome/About Me" and a "Latest News" section spreads things out a bit, and adspace is always useful. Otherwise just mimic what the others have said but only to throw in, right now its pretty monotone. I know Northern etc. said to spice up the colours, but dont just brighten the greens throw some others in their too. An instant win is always chrome/white, deep-lime green and black imho.

 

Any suggestions as to where the color should go?

 

I took the advice that you guys gave and this is what i came up with...

 

colours ok now, but that content area is still way 2 big. also it would be good if u could line up the 2 green lines as it would flow better. my be add latest work at the bottom of the contents, a large image like a picture frame?

 

Look at how Northern manages text on his templates.
He seems to know what his talking about.

Also. I recommend adding more artwork/pictures/imagery then text.
Try and make it so when they click onto your page they are hit with an artwork of yours instead of a block of text.

Make your portfolio sell yourself.

EDIT: Much better colours, still not sure about the "my portfolio" font, but its a big improvement.

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Yeah, you don't want a big block of text, it's not too inviting.

 

thanks for all of the advice guys, ill work on it and repost what i came up with.