I've been interested in graphic design for nearly 20 years, with approximately 10 years as a freelancer and 5 years working in a professional environment for a small business creating magazines, advertisements, assembling children's books, and working heavily with layout. The editorial sector is my primary preference, but I also love the creativity I get to put into advertisements and posters.
I had always imagined myself obtaining a degree in graphic design, but when the time for university drew nearer and nearer, I was encouraged to go a different direction -- a more "promising" direction. When I enrolled, I intended on becoming a clinical psychologist; however, when I fully realized I enjoyed working with animals more than I enjoyed my coursework, I switched fields in the hopes of working with animals in a rehabilitation setting. When I had to leave Oregon for the Black Hills, I had to put my education on hold.
When I was granted the opportunity of an entry-level position at a local publishing company, I immediately accepted. After several years with the company, I decided it was time to return to school and pursue the degree I should have years ago -- as of May 2019, I will have a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts.
professional: best single ad idea, 2015 | best overall design, 2017 | best rack card promotion,2015 | best sales tool, 2016 | best overall design, 2017 | best use of color, 2016 | best use of color, 2017
educational: summa cum laude, 2019 | outstanding student award, 2019
board games | baking | caliligraphy | sudoku | nonograms | drawing | foreign language learning | jigsaw puzzles | painting pottery | reading | video games | wood burning | hiking | travel | geocaching | working with animals