Since I was a child I have always been influenced in the art world. Starting from my Grandpa, who was a graphic designer and started his own paper business, to my two Aunts who are graphic designers, and to my Uncle, an architect firm owner. These people are an important element in my life as they have made a huge impact in the way I chose my career. I even had the chance to shadow my Aunt at Reader’s Digest and worked on the cover of the 2011 Pillsbury Christmas Edition Cookbook. These influences are what led me to the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Before coming to Stout I had taken several art classes to prepare me for college, because I have been so interested in the art and design field.

I have definitely come a long way over the past three years here at Stout I have learned and gained so much, including a better understanding of brainstorming, ideating, drawing, and computer skills. I have become more self-determined and have strengthened the principles and beliefs in my own life. All of this has helped reinforce the fact that I do indeed want to pursue graphic design as my occupation.

I believe that graphic design and people are linked together. My memories are linked back to certain fonts and logos. Each graphic design element, such as a logo, has character and a personality, just like a person. The fact that just seeing a certain logo can evoke memories shows how impactful logos can be in someone’s life and how graphic design is important in our society.

~Stephanie