As a kid I enjoyed making things. Music. Art. Doodles. Poems. Stories. You name it. As an adult, I enjoy making them even more. I had no idea pursuing them as a career was even on the table.
With that in mind, I went to college setting my sights on something else. Teaching. I love teaching. I come from a family of teachers. Like, a lot of them. It’s certainly in my DNA. Those that can simplify complex thoughts ought to be held in high regard. Teaching is a type of storytelling, an artform.
So, I took that road to see where it led me.
Eventually, I found my way back to art and design. It started with a few design courses here and there. Then, before I knew it, I was totally bitten by the design bug. I switched majors and the whole nine yards. Fast forward a bit and I find myself in graduate school. I was fortunate enough to teach art and design courses while at the college. Wow. Talk about a winning combination. The teaching bug sending a subtle reminder.
In wanting to become a great professor, it was clear that having agency experience would be invaluable. That expertise could then be transferred to my students to ensure their success. There was so much to learn from the agency world.
So, I took that road to see where it led me.Junior Designer. Designer. Senior Designer. Design Manager. Art Director. Creative Director. I wore many hats. I soaked it all in. I’m always looking for ways to combine my love for teaching with my passion for design. I’m lucky to have been able to lead and mentor in-house design teams. I’m lucky to still be doing it. Education and art have always played a major role in my life. I suspect they always will.
So, I look forward to the seeing where the next road leads me. I just hope there are no more bugs when I get there.