Everywhere Graphic Design
Yes, graphic design is just about everywhere these days. When I think of graphic design, my mind like so many others immediately jumps to signs and advertising and printing. But that is really just the very tip of the iceberg when it comes to graphic design.
Of course graphic design comprises signs. But it also is functional graphic design symbols. Let me give you an example. Let's say you're taking a drive in the mountains. You spot a yellow and black sign along the winding roadside that has a picture of a big rock falling off the side of the mountain and crashing atop a car. That is a message-based or functional graphic design.
How about the smiley face? 
Nowadays, there are all sorts of graphic design symbols that can be used for your iPhone or iPad that emote certain things.
Yet another example is the color scheme and logo design of airplanes for various companies. Taken together, the color, paint, and logo all work together to create an image or brand. This is the work of someone who specializes in graphic design.
Graphic Design Evolving
It used to be that the main tool for graphic design was a pencil. That is changing. Because of the portability of computers, some pretty slick and sophisticated programs are now at the disposal of creative types who make a living in this profession. This really is an art form -- at least that's my opinion -- so most serious design types will often have their handy pencil and sketch pad when meeting with clients or brainstorming. The computer is also being used to create some real magical stuff and most super serious people pursuing graphic design use it a lot.
I think it's interesting, too, the ebbs and flows of design. Essentially, I'm convinced that graphic design is consumer driven. What I mean by that is that the consumer who is trying to be reached has certain likes and dislikes that are constantly changing and evolving. There are seasons where a very busy design really works well. Today, the trend seems to be more streamlined and simplified. The Bauhaus influence is prevalent. For example, there are rumors that Microsoft is updating their logo with more of a Bauhaus design look. That is yet another example of graphic design.
Fun Graphic Design
Printing and graphic design go hand in hand. They just about always have. And when it comes to printing, think of some of those funny t-shirts you've seen over the years. It might be on vacation at the beach or a sporting event. But we often use these designs to show we're for something, against something, or to show we've been somewhere.
Remember the truck logo with camels called "Humpin' to Please?" That's one of my favorites!
Top 10 Graphic Design Programs (Free / Open Source)
Creative, functional, and everywhere -- that's graphic design.