Gaby Lazcano '19

Major: Graphic Design
Minors: Communication and Spanish

Why this major?

I have always had a passion for art and noticed that it was something I excelled at ever since I was young. I never knew exactly what graphic design was or what it entailed before coming to Carroll. It wasn’t until an academic advisor made me realize I could pursue a career where I am always creating and designing art that I considered graphic design. I took my first class as a sophomore and instantly fell in love!

What is your career objective?

Ultimately, I would love to find a career that utilizes the skillset I already have, but also helps me grow and become better as a designer on a daily basis. My career objective is to create works that both meet the needs of the different clients I will encounter while at the same time evincing emotion through storytelling when viewed by an audience.

How has what you’ve learned in your courses so far prepared you for your future?

I have gone through many ups and downs over the course of my time at Carroll, but I wouldn’t change a thing. The courses I’ve taken thus far have helped me realize that nothing in life is going to come easy; you have to work hard and stay focused to get where you want to be in the future. I have also realized that all your hard work will pay off and you will come out of college proud of the things you’ve accomplished and they will aid you going into your future careers.

Have you had opportunities to work closely with Carroll faculty?

I get to interact with outstanding graphic design faculty on a daily basis! I can definitely say that they have impacted my time and education here at Carroll. I’m not sure where I would be if it wasn’t for their constant "want to help" attitudes and their care for my work and future. I think the most amazing part is that I feel like I can confide in the faculty in the graphic design department, and I can go to them or ask them advice about anything and they will be there for me.

What is the most memorable experience you’ve had at Carroll?

My most memorable experience occurred first semester of my senior year, when my graphic design professor gave us the opportunity to partner with Stone Creek Coffee in Milwaukee to create a new marketing campaign for their business. It was awesome actually getting to work with real clients to create a product that aligned with their brand and mission statement. Also it gave us great presentation practice when we had to pitch our final ideas to Stone Creek. It’s definitely an experience I will never forget!

How has Carroll enriched your growth as a person?

Going to Carroll has definitely helped me grow as a student and a person. The university allows you to follow your passions through the various majors and minors offered; even if you don’t find the right fit immediately, you are bound to discover a path that’s right for you. Carroll focuses heavily on our educational experiences, but the university also allows us to explore ourselves through extracurricular activities and sports. Being a student- athlete has helped me learn how to multitask and time-manage, which has helped me grow into the person I am today!

What would you say to someone considering graphic design?

I would tell any student who is driven and has a passion for creating and designing new things, and wants to go down an artistic career path, that they should try graphic design. Like any major, you will never know if it is a right fit for you unless you try it first! I would also share with them that graphic design isn’t always going to be easy; you will have to work hard in order to make sure you are putting your best work forward, but when you do it, will be so worth it. Lastly, I would tell them that they have so many people in their corner (family, friends, faculty) who want to see them succeed!

How has financial aid has made a difference in your life?

My financial aid has greatly impacted my experience and time at Carroll. I’m not even sure that I would be able to afford my education at Carroll if it wasn’t for the aid I’ve received each semester. Specifically, I receive Carroll University’s Excel Scholarship. It is offered to students who excel with their grades and overall GPA during their time at Carroll. I have received that scholarship every semester I’ve studied at Carroll!

What’s your favorite place to study on campus?

My favorite places to study at Carroll are in the Humphrey Art Center and in the “Orange Zones” toward the back of the library!

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