What inspired you to attend PVCC?
At the time, I felt that PVCC was the best option for my specific post-secondary educational needs. Being neurodivergent (Autism Spectrum Disorder / Anxiety / ADHD) would have made attending a larger institute or university a daunting task. Fortunately, I was able to attend thanks in large part to the Motorola Retirees Scholarship (my grandparents were, in fact, retired Motorola employees).
What was your major or focus of study at PVCC?
I went in to study for a general career in the arts (primarily visual arts) and therefore pursued an Associate in Arts Degree. Midway through my journey, I began to tap into my knack for digital art and design and decided to pursue a Certificate of Completion in Animation and Graphics Production (Adobe Foundations) in addition to my AA.
What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?
In 2015, I participated in PVCC’s summer production of Spamalot. Though it was only one of two experiences in the Performing Arts division (the other being a beginner theater class), I was surrounded by people who were funny, talented, and an absolute joy to be around. I also dedicated the performance to the memory of my father, who had passed away one year prior. Watching Monty Python and the Holy Grail was one of our bonding experiences, and I was overjoyed to take part in something he would have loved.
I also enjoyed the classes that allowed me to showcase my creativity. John Storslee, who taught two of the three classes (Illustrator and Photoshop) for my CCL, was funny, and knowledgeable, and actively encouraged me in my pursuit of my goals. In addition, I had the great privilege to take a creative nonfiction writing course with Dr. Lois Roma-Deely. She encouraged all her students to use their language to convey the world around us from our unique point of view. This led to having an essay published in the 2013-14 edition of Paradise Review.
How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why?
PVCC has a fantastic array of resources for students with higher needs, in particular the Disability Resource Center and Counseling Services. I doubt I would be where I am without their guidance and assistance.
What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students?
No matter where you are on your educational journey, it’s never too late to figure out what you want out of life, or even your major! Take your time and weigh your options; that way, you will have a clear picture of your future.
Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC…
- May 2019: I graduated with my AA in 2019, after 11 strenuous, yet rewarding years.
- July 2019: I moved to California to attend a three-year training program at Exceptional Minds, a nonprofit providing training and employment in the digital arts, specifically for Autistic adults. They have partnered with several studios (Disney, Nickelodeon, Marvel, etc.) to provide animation and VFX work for their projects.
- September 2019 - June 2022: I studied at Exceptional Minds’ three-year Academy program, with a specialized focus in animation, design, and motion graphics (most of which is virtual, due to the 2020 COVID quarantine).
- June - August 2022: I served as a production intern on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (released in August 2023) as part of Nickelodeon Animation’s summer 2022 Internship Program.
- 2022-23: I have since worked in EM’s studio division, providing concept art/designs, and motion graphics work. I am also doing freelance work, providing animation for an upcoming motion graphics short, The Visitant, as well as providing illustrations for an upcoming graphic memoir, Second Sister.
How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path?
I would strongly advise you to take advantage of the many resources that PVCC has to offer, especially if you are neurodiverse and/or have a disability. The Disability Resource Center provides services that you would greatly benefit from (testing accommodations, accessible technology/furniture, interpreters, etc). I would also advise you to take time out to research your desired career and the steps you can take to get there.
In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges?
My greatest accomplishment was publishing my essay, “Otherwise Normal” in the 2013-14 Paradise Review showcase. It was a project for my creative nonfiction class, where the class had to write essays about something in their life that was a significant sticking point to them. This allowed me to vent my frustrations with my neurodivergence at the time in a creative way. I remember the instructor for a technology class had read it and told me how much he empathized with me, as his wife had health struggles of her own. This emboldened me to hone my writing skills.
My greatest challenge was learning to communicate my needs to my instructors. For a long time, my lack of confidence hampered my ability to do this one thing, as I was afraid they would not understand or accommodate me. But, as the years rolled on, I learned to speak up if I felt I needed a break or more time on a test. The more I did it, the less I worried about it.
How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do?
Learning at PVCC helped me improve my research skills, my knowledge of graphic design software, and my confidence. This allowed me to look into the varying jobs in the animation industry, and research a plan for what I wanted to do when I got my AA. I also have a greater sense of self because of the support and encouragement I received from my family, instructors, and peers.