Following is a Q&A with one of the 763 students who received a diploma Dec. 15 at UW-Stout
Hometown: Baldwin
Major: Entertainment design, concentration in comics and sequential art
Awards, honors: Magna Cum Laude, national Schools of Art and Design Student Work Exhibition, Concordia College Faith, Reason and World Affairs Symposium Art Exhibition — Women’s Work
Why did you choose UW-Stout? I was unsure what major to go into. After visiting Stout for the visual arts competition with my high school art club two years in a row, I realized that Stout had a lot of opportunities in art and design. I had the opportunity to speak to college students when I was there, and they had a lot of positive notes about the campus. Stout also offered comics in the entertainment design program, which seemed to be the right fit for me.
What are the biggest obstacles you faced in earning your degree? I really appreciated the challenges my degree presented. However, the biggest obstacles I had to face included getting outside my comfort zone, trying new art styles and mediums, dealing with art classes outside of my major and balancing my studio classes with outside clubs and other work.
What stands out among your college experiences? At first, I was nervous to go out and experience the opportunities, like artist visits, that UW-Stout had to offer. I decided to push out of my comfort zone, and I attended an artist talk by graphic novelist Nate Powell, illustrator of the comic book series “March.” This opportunity got me connected with an experienced artist who supported my senior capstone project in return. I really recommend taking advantage of the opportunities that UW-Stout offers.
What’s next? I work in Stillwater, Minn., at a Create and Paint Studio that allows me to use the skills I have developed in art and design. I also work as a part-time graphic designer for another business. It is a good feeling to already be working in the arts before graduating. After I graduate my hope is to start my next graphic novel and continue to grow as an artist and illustrator. I would love to travel outside of the U.S to experience new places, cultures and stories.
###
