Why did you choose UConn?
I chose Uconn because I wanted to pick a school I was able to commute to. After high school I wasn’t ready to travel a long distance for the college experience.
What’s your major and why did you choose it?
My major is Illustration. I knew I wanted to be an artist from a very young age. I love to tell stories through pictures, so Illustration was the best fit for me. Choosing a major where I was able to receive an education in both technical skill and professional guidance just made sense.
Who was your favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor is Alison Paul. She gave me critiques that greatly improved my assignments throughout the courses I’ve had, many of which I am able to keep in mind and apply to my work today. She has also provided me with resources to help my art exist in a professional space outside of the classroom, which has been really valuable.
What was your favorite class and why?
My favorite class was Animation Fundamentals. I was able to learn how to animate in several different mediums, all while creating work that can be used in my portfolio. The environment in that class was creative and fun, and I was able to make some of my best friends over the course of that semester.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation my plan is to start sending my work to publishing houses, as well as looking for internships. I would really like to pursue a career in children’s book illustration, which is why for my senior project I created a children’s book dummy that can be pitched. I have also been working closely with author and illustrator Barbara McClintock, and will continue to do so after my graduation.
What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?
The food in the dining halls was really good.
What’s your favorite thing about UConn?
It may be cliche, but the friends I’ve made has my favorite thing about UConn. The university experience is having all types of people at one location, socializing, and sharing the same goal of higher education. Had it not been for this, I would never have met my best friends, who we lovingly refer to as “The Bishies.”
What activities were you involved with on campus?
Sadly, I was not able to participate in as many campus activities because of my commute time to and from campus, however I worked at the Dairy Bar as a supervisor and cake decorator. The four years I spent there were amazing, and I couldn’t have asked for a better job in college. I also played in the UConn Marching Band.
What’s one thing all UConn students should do during their time at UConn?
Make time for yourself and others. I spent so much of my college career rushing around, completing assignments, and finding parking (ha) that at times I lost focus of important things. Also take advantage of all the university’s resources while you can, the library is actually pretty cool, and the Jorgensen has lots of events students have access to.
How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in your life?
The Illustration department has pointed me in a direction where I feel comfortable being a working professional artist. I was given much instruction on what industry standards are and how I can apply certain principles to my own work.
What’s something you learned in a class that you’ll always remember?
I’ll never forget how to PROPERLY name a file for animation.
What were some of the things you had never done before you came to UConn?
I had never learned to weld before I came to UConn, but thanks to my metal sculpture class now I can, which I think is pretty neat.
What is one thing that will always make you think of UConn?
Probably any time I see a husky from now on, I will likely think of UConn.
What’s something good about UConn that not many people know?
I’m pretty sure everyone already knows this, but the Dairy Bar has the best ice cream in the world and you should eat it. Also, every year they provide the ice cream for the One-Ton Sundae, so definitely go get some of that when the time comes.
Any advice for incoming first-year students?
Don’t be afraid to reach out to your professors, about anything. I generally have a hard time with communication, however all of my professors have been very helpful when I came to them with questions. It can really improve your college experience.
