Lydia Boateng-Sarpong: speech pathology (senior)
Moraya Truman: digital communications (sophomore)
Priscila Ruth Orellana Campana: speech language pathology and audiology (sophomore)
Karla Torres: graphic design and Spanish (senior)
Samantha Woolford-Hunt: graphic design (sophomore)
Why did you choose your major?
Lydia: I chose my major because I felt it was where I belonged. I switched my major to speech path and after our first class, I felt a strong pull towards helping others communicate. A big thing within our major is remembering that every person deserves to have a voice and that that voice matters. Being able to help someone gain or maintain that ability is very special.
Moraya: I chose my major because I have experience in the field and I love the opportunity that it provides to do distance work. Plus I have connections in this area which is always nice.
Priscila: I have a cousin who has speech problems and I see a lot of children are put to the side and their parents are embarrassed of them because they can’t speak properly. I felt bad for them and wanted to help those kids.
Karla: I chose graphic design as my major because I’ve always had a deep passion for creativity and visual communication. My dad was a graphic designer in college, and I often saw him immersed in his work. He became a significant source of inspiration for me. I love the idea of sharing my ideas and advocating for important issues through graphic design. It’s not just a career choice for me; it’s a genuine passion.
Samantha: I have always liked art ever since I was little. My dad is an artist so he always encouraged me to chase after what I want and reach for the stars.
What do you foresee doing with your major after you graduate?
Lydia: After I graduate, I will be attending grad school to be able to further my knowledge and get my certifications to work as a speech language pathologist
Moraya: I think after I graduate I’ll probably work for the church in some capacity. If I’m married or that’s more of a thing on the horizon, I’ll probably stick with freelance work.
Priscila: Being a missionary and helping kids that are being put to the side.
Karla: After I graduate, my goal is to work for a design firm in a vibrant city like New York or Denver. I want to focus on branding and print design, but we will see what happens.
Samantha: I would love to work for a major fashion magazine and design the covers and write some of the articles.
How have you enjoyed your classes and department so far?
Lydia: I have really enjoyed our department’s classes. Our department is very welcoming and warm. As this is my senior year, work has been a little more challenging but the faculty and staff are encouraging and willing to give help when needed.
Moraya: I’ve LOVED my comm classes and teachers. Literally incredible people. Heather Day’s interpersonal communication class is a MUST for anyone no matter the degree. My photography class with Mr. Sherwin was so much fun and I’ve loved working with professor Weber in videography and now cinematography.
Priscila: I really like my department as it’s so small and it feels like a family. The faculty is always very helpful. The professors are really easy to get along with and if you don’t understand something you can always ask.
Karla: I’ve genuinely enjoyed my classes and experiences within the Graphic Design department so far. What I appreciate most is that our classes are typically small and project-based, which makes them very hands-on. This approach allows for more one-on-one interaction with professors, ensuring that I can learn and explore aspects of graphic design that align with my personal interests and career goals. The classes are not just informative but also fun, and the professors in my department are truly exceptional.
Samantha: My department is nice, they seem to care about their students and want them to succeed. As for the classes, no class is easy in college but you just have to keep on going.
What advice would you give to new students in your major?
Lydia: Advice I would give to a new student in my major is to ask for help as soon as you need it. The teachers are willing to work with you and do their best to make sure you succeed.
Also I would tell you to make friends with your classmates, you're going through the same stuff together, who better to rely on than each other?
Moraya: New students? The classes aren't too hard truthfully, but you get what you put into it. If you wanna slide by, you can, but these classes really are here to help you develop your skills in so many areas. Be open minded to find what your talents or passions are, and remember not to procrastinate.
Priscila: If you have problems talk to your professors, they are always willing to help or even if you can’t submit something on time they will be very understanding. Get to know the faculty.
Karla: To new students in the graphic design major, I’d offer the following advice:
Embrace your creativity and don’t be afraid to push the boundaries of design. Your unique perspective and innovative ideas are your strengths.
Make the most of the hands-on nature of your classes. These projects provide you with valuable practical experience and opportunities to build a strong portfolio.
Establish strong relationships with your professors. They can provide guidance, mentorship, and insights into the industry that can be incredibly beneficial.
Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. Graphic design is a constantly evolving field, and being open to experimentation can set you apart.
Always stay updated with industry trends and emerging design technologies. The design world moves quickly, and being in the know can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Samantha: One thing I would tell a new student is that going into my specific major means you have to see it all the way through. Whether it is a project or a teacher’s class, you have to see the idea all the way through. Push yourself to be better.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.