Conference Links Students with Graphic Arts Professionals

SEA ConferenceIn February, graphic design student Heather Van Sant ’14 of Sully, Iowa, accompanied by Ellen Browning, assistant professor of art and design, attended the 12th Annual Self Employment in the Arts Conference sponsored by the Coleman Foundation.

The conference brings together professionals across the arts for everything from portfolio review to negotiating contracts.

“The opportunity to meet and talk with professionals in the field opens up all kinds of doors for students,” said Browning. “It’s a confidence builder and provides another perspective that helps students see where and how exactly they fit into the job world after school.”

Browning was able to help Van Sant obtain a scholarship through the Coleman Foundation to attend the conference.

“The conference was a great opportunity to gain a better understanding of what my life will be like as a graphic designer and photographer,” said Van Sant. “I feel much more prepared now and know what is to come. I also had the chance to talk to a graphic designer and photojournalist one-on-one.”