FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
I was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and have always had an interest in both art and music. When I first began college at Florida International University, I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education. After graduation, I applied and was accepted into the Disney College Program where I spent my days driving the tram at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando. After the college program, I began working as a temporary teacher while looking for a permanent position as a music teacher and realized it wasn’t my passion. That’s when I rediscovered my love for art and illustration and looked towards design. I returned to Florida International University where I am now finishing up my undergraduate degree in Graphic Design and I am more than grateful to the program for helping me grow and find my true passion in life. Although I’ve moved away from music, I still enjoy finding inspiration in it and seeking opportunities to include it in my art.
WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL INSPIRED?
I get inspired by engaging with different art forms and especially the stories they tell whether it’s films, shows, books, or music.
WHAT AREA OF DESIGN ARE YOU HOPING TO WORK IN OR SPECIALIZE IN?
I would love to work in illustration, but I’m open to different opportunities as I enjoy the chance to experiment with different programs or technologies.
WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?
One thing I’ve learned is how intentional design is. It’s not just creating art or something attention-grabbing, we’re trying to say something and that message needs thought and reason behind it to find the best way to resonate with an audience.
WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?
I really admire Jessica Hische for her incredible work in hand-lettering, typography, and illustrations.
WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING (BOOKS, MOVIES, TV, SOCIAL MEDIA, MUSIC)?
I am currently reading The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. It’s an introspective book that explores the ‘what-ifs’ in life where the main character is given the opportunity to experience multiple versions of her life and find the one she wants to live.
DO YOU, OR DO YOU PLAN TO, DESIGN FOR ANY CAUSES OR CHARITIES, I.E., DESIGN FOR GOOD?
I recently designed posters for a non-profit wildlife sanctuary called Kinkatopia that rescues wild animals called kinkajous. I enjoyed this project and would love to work for other causes and charities in the future.
DO YOU FEEL THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS PREPARED YOU TO FIND A JOB?
Design school has made me a better designer and more confident artist and has definitely made me feel more prepared to find a job moving forward.
