Thirteen students from the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication are building a creative connection between graphic design creatives and industry professionals across the region.
Under the direction of Anosh Gill, the graphic design division director, these students have chartered the first American Institute of Graphic Arts student chapter here at FAMU that will serve students of Tallahassee and surrounding regions.
AIGA encourages the formation of student groups at colleges and universities and is committed to developing these groups as a way of encouraging students to take the first step in demonstrating a commitment to their professional interest and assisting them in understanding the profession.
Professor Gill said the AIGA student group members will now have a great opportunity to connect directly with professional designers – both locally and nationally.
“They will be able to share and build their portfolios with advice from these professionals and other national student groups,” said Gill. “Guided by the faculty advisor’s active support, the students will become leaders of on-campus programming and events. They will also have a chance to experience and volunteer for the AIGA national conference.”
Students are eager to see a positive change in momentum for the graphic design industry. Maurice Wallace, a fourth-year graphic design student, feels the student professional organization is a good start and will help students that come after him to study at the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication.
“The amount of networking opportunities and the amount of people I’ve met already when we’ve just started…I meet new people nearly every week in the industry and they give me tips, they connect me with other professionals in the industry, so it’s great!”
Dean Michelle Ferrier is keen to build pathways for students to professionals.
“We are looking to fund student participation in the national AIGA Design Conference this Spring on March 30, where students will build their professional networks and learn business practices to develop their craft,” said Ferrier.
Although chartered at Florida A&M University, the chapter is calling for student participation from local colleges and universities like Tallahassee Community College and Florida State University students.
Senior Graphic Design students Jerry Medireck and Karmyn Hill currently serve as the chapters President and Vice-President. For students wanting to get involved with the chapter, reach out to Zac Easom, the head of member services. AIGA meets at 11 A.M. every Thursday in the School of Journalism and Graphic Communication.
