In the News

Q: Jessica, you're building a career as a graphic artist. What inspired you to learn art/design?

My creative aspirations began in 7th grade. I discovered my own talents for drawing in my first art class. My art teacher told me that I could draw well—but if I wanted to make money in art, I would need to become a graphic designer! As a 7th grade student, I didn't know what that was but I knew it was my destiny. I began taking art classes every semester in high school.

Q: What's learning design all about? What are the challenges in learning the software skills and developing the design skills to do professional-level work?

Learning design is a never-ceasing challenge. The technology is always changing, and so I have to embrace continuing education. It's about taking one step at a time to build on my skills. The challenge is judging my own work based on the client's needs. I have to imagine what the client's vision is and bring it to life.

Q: Most important personality trait for a designer?

The most important personality trait is to realize that your work can always be improved. A designer may have to work on one piece for several days to reach a certain level of perfection. I work many late nights to reach deadlines. A designer must always find peace with the fact that work comes before his or her own social life.

Jessica's original take on the iPod ad. Done in Photoshop.

Q: What do you like about studying online? What's your favorite project so far, and why?

I like studying online mostly because I can work my lessons around my full-time job and my personal life. I am in control of how fast I can finish and it allows me to strive to finish early. Favorite project? The lesson in my Advanced Photoshop class on brushes stands out the most. I had not been given the opportunity to create a realistic image using brushes before. Although I had never created something like this in my career, I was very successful at it.

Q: Getting a critique of your work is an important part of any art/design program. How has getting feedback helped your work?

Getting feedback from my instructor has been very helpful. Sometimes I second guess myself and it has been helpful to push me in the direction of becoming a better designer. Instead of finishing and turning in work that is not its absolute best, I work through the details to reach a professional level.

Q: You're studying in the Web design track. What do you hope to accomplish when you complete the program?

I strive to learn Web Design so I can work for myself in a freelance capacity. I would like to work for a company one day using my skills but I want to finish my BA degree first. I am seriously considering using my GI Bill for the Master's program with Sessions because I have had such a positive experience.

Collage project in Photoshop

Q: Non-creative folks might have a hard time understanding how the disciplined, structured environment of the armed services can prepare you for a creative path like Web design. How did the army help you?

Being in the military has taught me to believe in myself above anything else. I am capable of much more than I had ever imagined prior to my enlistment. It has given me the discipline to manage my own time and take responsibility for my own future. I joined the military for many reasons. It was an honor to serve and although I did sustain an injury I will never take back what I gave. I was in Communications in the Army for over a year and I am very proud of that.

Q: The Louis. H. Schilt Memorial program was created to provide opportunities for injured veterans interested in a design career. Can you comment on the education/training options available for vets right now? What should schools and agencies be doing to help?

Even if injured, a veteran can offer a school or employer so much in terms of loyalty, dedication, and work ethic. A veteran will generally be successful in a learning environment because he or she is used to being in training and learning new skill sets from their military experience. I believe that any school or agency should have more scholarship or training opportunities for veterans because it helps each individual become an asset.