I finished my last design class today in the Graphic Design program at the University of Utah. Already having a job in the business I’ll admit this last semester has dragged due to the lack of motivation for “fun” projects. Really this should have been a prime opportunity to refine and develop ideas for work that I most likely won’t have a chance to “sell” in the real world. But this man has to support his family, and keep the “real” clients — and Steve, happy.
It’s been a wonderful experience in the design program there, led by design legend Macray Magleby, known for his poster designs most notably the “Wave of Peace” poster with doves coming off a wave. Ray Morales, I’ve never met someone so sensitive to design and the intricate details of aesthetics. Carol Sogard, active in the design community, in the local AIGA, and always there to help and give thoughtful feedback with a great design eye. Through the 3 years there I also received great instruction from Randal Smith of Modern8 and James Rabdau of The Summit Group.
I got to know many great students there who inspired me in my work and pushed me to become a better designer. I’m positive that most of my class will continue on to good jobs and a career in design (or scrap booking). I wish them all the best of luck.
I wish I could say I’m completely done and walking the graduation line next week, but I’ve got three general ed requirements left to complete. I’ll be taking one online this Summer and try to fit the other two in sometime next year. I shall finish and get the degree (especially according to my wife).
I will miss being warned not to cut off my fingers with exacto knives. I will miss the cards and coke cups glued to the ceiling. I will miss phrases such as “irregardless of the defecation” but most of all, I will miss the friends I have made.
Good Luck Santiago!
Congrats, fella. I am filled with envy…I can’t wait to graduate. It’s inspiring seeing your work (both school and professional).
Yeah, what is up with that Coke cup glued to the ceiling? I’ve spent a few minutes in contemplation over that on more than one occasion.
Hey, I know that girl! She was in my Intaglio class 2 summers ago and my life drawing class.
That’s Aaren Esplin, and she’s going to kill me when she finds out I put her photo on here. Good thing she’s moving to Cali…
Kill you, no. Make me blush, maybe… I will just take it as pay back for giving me such a hard time! And a hi to “Gill” Jason, hope all is well.
All I have to say is I am not missing anything about school I think it will take me a few months maybe years before the nostalgia sets in. I have enjoyed the people I met in the ugliest building on campus.
I’ll agree with Aaren that the art/architecture building is by far the ugliest building on campus… oh the sweet irony…
I’m still slogging away at the U, and really, I probably should have positioned my arse in the design program ages ago, but seeing as the school now thinks I’m a senior, I should probably just see what a can BS my way into so that I may get that blasted expensive piece of paper.
Wow – I’m so happy I stumbled upon your blog today! (It’s always nice to find other Utah blogs & designers). I was in the Design program at the U of U for a semester or two, but then had to choose between that and a design job – so I had to take the job. (Money reasons only). I miss school, and probably would have been graduating with you this week had I not needed to pull out of the program. Maybe I’ll be able to go back someday – who knows?
Also, you work at Richer7?! I’ve always coveted a job there, and am working on beefing up my portfolio to pitch to them. How did you go about getting a job there?
I have tons of questions… lots I’d like to ask you about. If you care to, drop me an email!
-Jen