Interview is edited for length and clarity.
Why did you consider Simmons for your college experience?
I wanted to be in Boston. I got into Boston University, but after touring Simmons, I felt it was the place that fit me best. I felt so comfortable, almost like an exhale. I felt like I was in the big city but I was in this little cocoon where I felt comfortable and knew I could take advantage, so I changed my mind and decided to go to Simmons.
How did attending a women's-centered institution shape you?
I never thought of it as a women's college. It felt natural and then once being there, I honestly didn't feel a difference. I was never afraid to speak up and that has helped me tremendously. I'm really self-assured because of my time at Simmons. When I got out and started to work, it wasn't a problem for me to speak up with ideas or ask questions about processes.
What advice would you give to other students studying graphic design?
The industry and my job have changed a few times from when I started to where I am now. You have to be a good people person, you have to listen, and you have to try to guide people sometimes. It's a lot of adapting and pivoting.
When you do find a job, never think something is beneath you. Never think you are too good for something. You have to go through all the pieces. You have to understand all of the parts. You have to want to put in the time.
Were you a part of any clubs or extracurricular activities at Simmons?
I worked for The Simmons News publication. We worked out of a small newsroom and darkroom to create the paper. I was one of the co-art directors and there would be times when we would be up until the early morning designing and deciding the layout before sending it to the printer. I also rowed on the crew team, so there were times when I would go right from the newsroom to the boathouse at 5:30 in the morning. I was also an RA in my junior year at Simmons Hall, and in my senior year, I was an RA for Arnold Hall.
I think the more you’re with people in large groups, the more you learn to work with different people, attitudes, and approaches, and gain real-world experiences in college to see things differently than you may have before. It makes you adaptable.