Alexis Mason

Name:     Alexis Mason
Degree:  Bachelor of Science
Major:     Graphic Design

Years in the field:  4

Previous job titles and organizations:
Interactive Designer/Developer, Olive and Company 
Design Intern, Tunnel Studio 
Graphic Arts Intern, American Girl/Mattel 
Electronic Prepress Intern, Kramer Printing

Current Job Title:  Designer
Organization:  Ham in the Fridge

How did you find this job?
Through a combination of online networks and a former colleague's recommendation

Please describe your job:
Interactive design and development involving:  concepting, html/css/javascript, Flash/Actionscript, concept execution, graphic production, client and internal meetings, and brainstorming

What from your undergraduate educational experience was most helpful in preparing you for this career?
-Brad Hokanson's classes (all)
-Being an officer of the UMN Gymnastics Club 
-Career network development (through outside educators) 
-Being taught to talk wisely about my work-- extremely helpful
-INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCES = INVALUABLE

What is the biggest misconception about this occupation or field?  
It's not just how talented you are - it's who you know and how well you are able to present yourself. Be proud but personable! People want a good worker - someone they can trust, and someone pleasant to be around, not just a design superstar. But if you're all of the above, all the better.

What advice do you have for current students?
INTERNSHIPS: ANYWHERE. ANYTIME. START EARLY. Interning at a print shop in the summer before my Junior year was one of the best things I did for myself. Also, get to know a lot of people if you can; don't feel like you have to fake who you are to get there, but be proactive in trying to meet people.

Is there anything else you would like to add that we didn’t ask you?
Minneapolis is a kick-butt place to be a designer. Be grateful and proud that you are a grad of the U and enjoy the myriad of design opportunities we have here!