Recent graduate Erin Donohue transferred to Appalachian State University her sophomore year set on obtaining a degree in graphic design. Then, she met Dr. George Glisan, coordinator of the Graphic Arts and Imaging Technology (GAIT) Program, and learned she could pursue her passion for design while learning hands on technical and production-based skills as well.

“After I met with Dr. Glisan I felt really curious and excited,” she said. “He helped me recognize that through the GAIT program, I could become a better and smarter designer by learning about production standards. I also liked how the curriculum was designed with a strong emphasis on technical and hands-on learning.”

The small class size and experiential aspects of the program were beneficial to Donohue, as well. She also appreciated her professors’ willingness to guide students through learning the Adobe Creative Cloud software and how to run the printing presses on-site at Katherine Harper Hall.

Now, Donohue is a technical service team member at Wikoff Color Corporation in Fort Mill, South Carolina – a position offered to her after she completed an internship with the company in summer 2016.

“Having a job lined up before I graduated was exciting and made me truly appreciate the networking capabilities that we have available to us as GAIT students,” she remarked.

“I encourage all students to participate in and take advantage of Career Connections (the GAIT Program’s annual job and internship fair). This is a great event because students can practice their job interview skills and make important industry connections.”

Beyond her program, Donohue credits the Appalachian Experience for helping foster her success.

“I really appreciated the diversity and opportunities provided within the campus community,” she said. “Appalachian State University is truly a magical place.”

Donohue was part of a team of Appalachian students that took top honors in an international design competition.