Alyssa Wilcox

  Degree: Bachelor of Science
  Major: Graphic Design

  Current Job Title: Lead Interactive Designer
  Organization: Capella University

  How did you find this job?
  A friend was working here after I graduated and  told me about
  the open position. I came in to interview and got the job.

  Please describe your job:
  I do a variety of tasks on a daily basis. Some aspects of my
  position involve planning and managing projects. This usually
  involves attending planning meetings, brainstorming ideas for
  media, and giving art direction on the actual projects. I also
  work on a variety of design projects that range from
  illustrations, website designs, interactive pieces, and animations. My job has a lot of variety day to day and I'm always working on something new and different as the projects change frequently.

What from your undergraduate educational experience was most helpful in preparing you for this career?
My undergraduate education laid the groundwork for my career. Learning the principles and foundations of design helped me develop the skills I would need in the real world. The projects we completed as students gave me problem solving experience, which helped prepare me for the challenges I face daily as a design professional.

What is the biggest misconception about this occupation or field?
I don't think it's a misconception but I was somewhat surprised by how much the saying, "It's not what you know but who you know" is true. I've gotten all of my design jobs from knowing friends who were connected with them. When my current company looks for people, we ask for referrals before we go to any outside sources so networking is definitely important. Of course skills and experience are extremely important as well, but getting your foot in the door is easier when you know someone on the other side. Do informational interviews, participate in the mentor program, and shadow someone at a company you admire. All of these things will help you start to develop relationships with people in the industry.

What advice do you have for current students?
The work you are doing in your classes will most likely be the bulk of your portfolio. Make sure you are investing yourself in your projects so when you do graduate, you have work that you're proud of that expresses your personality and style. If you are interested in interactive design, try to do as much work relevant to that as possible. If you know you want a job in a certain part of the industry, look for all opportunities to explore that area and build your portfolio around that. A good portfolio is SO important.