Senior staff letter: Karly, layout designer

The Encounter has been one of my favorite parts of my USF experience. I appreciate getting to see my work enjoyed by those around me, learning how to use the dreaded program InDesign and getting to draw Bernie the school mascot as many times as I want.

This job has made me more confident in my career path than any other decision at this school.

Art has always been a huge part of my life, but it’s a field notorious for being difficult. Through the Encounter, I’ve seen the previously understated, reliable side of an art career. The deadlines are always consistent and manageable, and the reward of seeing the finished product in someone else’s hands is immense.

One thing I’ve been thinking about while I reflect on my time here is the importance of connections. The bonds I’ve made while here are ones I hope last me a lifetime. The professors of the art department have created a tight-knit community where each person pushes each other to grow and do better within their art and as individuals. Even through the tumultuous times the school faced, I think that I could not have asked for a better group to face it with.

As I come closer to graduation, there’s a fear and an excitement over what’s next setting in. I both relish and dread every question from others over what I’ll be doing post-college. I’m unsure about what the future will look like, but I do know what my remaining time at the University of St Francis will look like. I hope to use the last while to finish my thesis show, put out this last edition of the Encounter and close this chapter of my life on a high note.

Thank you for picking up the Encounter each month. This is like the diet version of my dream job, so I deeply appreciate everyone who added to the feeling of joy I got as the layout designer!