When Alexis Howard first entered the Irvine Valley College graphic design program last year, she had no idea that within just a few months she’d be working with her first professional client: the sportswear company Slunks, which recruited her for a major design launch.
For Alexis, it was a hard-fought victory on an educational journey marked by self-discovery and transformation, perseverance, a passion for creativity, and a commitment to personal growth.
Now pursuing her Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design, Alexis admits that early on, "I didn't know who I wanted to be, what I wanted to be."
"I knew I wanted to do something I really, really enjoy and could see doing for a long time in my future," she said, adding that her academic path at IVC, which began in 2019, was marked by several major changes until she finally found her calling.
"I thought I would go into psychology and become an art therapist, but I realized that wasn't the best spot for me, so I thought doing a new thing, like graphic design, would rekindle my interest in art. And it did."
Alexis’ journey into the world of art was inspired by her aunt, who first exposed Alexis to the joys of working with various media. At IVC, her journey has been accompanied by the unwavering support of Professor Gokce Kasikci, a.k.a. Blue, whom Alexis regards as her biggest motivation.
"She's so supportive and caring," Alexis says. "She will definitely just tell you how it is, no matter what, but she'll do it in a way that's motivating and where everyone is happy in the end. It was her first year teaching at IVC as well, so we've really been doing this together."
When asked about her choice of the graphic design program, Alexis explains, "I did physical arts classes in the beginning but felt it was more modern to tap into the graphic design world." This transition allowed her to discover her specialty, focusing on logos and branding for companies.
"I love seeing the process from beginning to end, either starting from nothing and seeing how it is when it comes to life or rebranding an old logo and seeing how you can make it fit in the real world,” adds Alexis. “I had no idea I would fall in love with a subject so much.”
What Alexis appreciates most about her chosen field is the freedom it offers for self-expression and relationship-building. "It feels a lot easier now to express myself and build relationships," she says. "With the clients I've had, they want me to help them get something across through art in a way that they don't know how to. Because I know more about that aspect, I can help them get to that place."
One of the most exciting aspects of her education, according to Alexis, is the opportunity to improve her people skills.
"I have always had really bad anxiety when talking with people," she confesses. "But with the real-life clients I've gotten through IVC, it's nice to have that push to talk with them in a professional way. It's really helped me because I know I'm going to have to have that skill in the future."
Like many students, Alexis has faced the challenge of time management and balancing the demands of being a student while juggling two jobs as a thrift store supervisor and graphic design tutor at IVC.
"Timing and time management, especially with work, can be hard," says Alexis, who credits a supportive community of classmates with helping her find balance. "I've met the most wonderful people, and we've gone out to lunch and have discussions not just about class but about our lives," she says. "It helps because it makes us all feel more comfortable."
Looking forward, Alexis aspires to work in the logo and branding field, though she remains open to all graphic design opportunities. She plans to enter the working world directly after obtaining her Associate's Degree, with the possibility of returning for further education and skill refinement in the future.
To students considering a future at IVC, Alexis has this to say…
“Oh my gosh, do it! It seriously helped me so much, it’s crazy!”