As you step into the vibrant Sweetwater Campus, the lively sounds of music and the enticing aroma of coffee create an inviting atmosphere. Upon closer inspection, you’ll discover striking promotional graphics that showcase the creative talents of Emira Veseli, a proud graduate of Ivy Tech Fort Wayne.

For Emira, a visual communications graduate, each day presents a new adventure.

“My work extends beyond Sweetwater; I also contribute to projects for Sweetwater’s Studio, Academy, Wavelengths Hair Salon, Crescendo Café, and Downbeat Diner. Each entity has its own distinct branding, making every project a unique and thrilling challenge,” she explains.

Her responsibilities range from designing print materials to crafting digital advertisements and even creating t-shirt designs. Emira thrives in the fast-paced environment, a skill she honed during her time in college.

“It’s an incredible place that fosters creativity. I get to engage in exciting projects like master classes, employee events, and holiday recitals for Academy students, all filled with energy and artistic flair. Every day is a chance to push creative limits!”

A Day in the Life of a Graphic Designer

Emira’s typical day begins with checking emails, prioritizing tasks, and reviewing new projects before diving into her ongoing assignments.

“I utilize Adobe Creative Suite daily, seamlessly switching between Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator to handle a diverse array of projects,” she shares.

She navigates through various projects and clients, committed to collaborating on designs that meet objectives and align with the company’s vision. While challenges may arise, particularly in reaching a consensus on final products, Emira values feedback and is always open to compromise.

“Feedback is essential for a designer. It offers a fresh perspective on how others perceive a design, helping me enhance my work,” she notes.

Her favorite projects often involve the campus hair salon, Wavelengths, and the coffee shop, Crescendo Café, where she feels she can unleash her creativity through seasonal drink promotions and collaborating with the photo team to capture unique product shots.

“There’s nothing more fulfilling than witnessing people appreciate the creativity behind my work. Watching a concept evolve from an idea to its final form and seeing it displayed throughout the campus is an incredibly rewarding experience,” Emira reflects.

The Journey to Becoming a Designer

Initially, graphic design was not her intended path.

Although she set aside her aspirations of becoming a fashion designer, Emira pursued her passion for art by enrolling in Ivy Tech Fort Wayne.

“I chose Ivy Tech for its program that balances creativity with practical skills in a fast-paced environment,” she explains.

Emira successfully managed her work and studies by opting for a mix of in-person and online classes, appreciating the hands-on approach of her courses.

“I entered the program with little knowledge of graphic design or Adobe Creative Suite. The first day, the instructor introduced the tools and their applications in design, which was incredibly exciting for me,” she recalls.

Her classes equipped her with design principles, problem-solving skills, and software knowledge that she still applies today, allowing her to build a portfolio, accept constructive criticism, and secure a transformative internship.

Developing Skills

During a class taught by Jared Applegate, Emira had the opportunity to meet Jamal Robinson, the 2016 New Venture Competition winner, who was promoting his brand, CEV Eyewear. He was seeking a graphic design intern, and Applegate encouraged Emira to apply.

“I’m so grateful I did. It was a valuable and enjoyable experience that taught me a lot,” she says.

Her responsibilities included photo retouching, creating social media graphics, and product photography.

“Jamal was incredibly ambitious and helped me understand branding and the role of social media in representing a brand. I also researched competitors and explored articles he shared, which deepened my understanding,” she adds.

CEV Eyewear was her first real glimpse into a career in graphic design, and she leveraged those skills to create an impressive portfolio, leading to her initial role as a production artist at Sweetwater. From there, she continued to advance, ultimately becoming a graphic designer.

Keeping Current

Emira remains committed to staying updated on the latest trends, following her favorite designers on social media who share tips, tricks, and their latest projects.

“I challenge myself by exploring the work of others, using their creations as inspiration to develop ideas that will make my projects stand out,” she explains.

As Emira progresses in her career, she continually seeks inspiration that surprises and motivates her.

“I aspire to collaborate with designers who possess unique styles and innovative problem-solving skills that make you think, ‘Wow, that’s a brilliant idea!’”

Outside of her professional life, she nurtures her creativity by sketching patterns, designing fashion concepts, and indulging in fantasy novels. She enjoys taking walks to unwind and seek further inspiration.

“My advice to future students is to embrace feedback and maintain curiosity. Also, don’t hesitate to explore new interests, as they can ignite fresh creative ideas,” she advises.

Looking Ahead

Five years into her career, Emira is passionate about her role at Sweetwater. She approaches each day ready to tackle challenges and discover creative solutions while thriving in an environment that nurtures and celebrates creativity.

“It’s amazing to walk into the music store and see people light up with excitement; it’s like a paradise for them, similar to how I feel in an art store,” she shares.

Reflecting on her journey, Emira wouldn’t change a thing. She believes the opportunities she gained through her education at Ivy Tech were essential for her success.

“I think pursuing an associate degree was the perfect choice for me,” she concludes.