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Women in Digital Arts
By: Jacqueline Carr
Release Date: 04/28/06
Women in Digital Arts
Three Women, Three Interviews: The Art of Career Change
Art directors, film editors and web designers are known as an eclectic group. What they often have in common is their diverse backgrounds and experiences. Consider the lives of three women in the digital arts program at UCSD Extension. Each arrived here from a different path but are using the combination of art and design as a tool to pursue dreams of creativity and financial independence.
Pamela Burgo
Occupation: Case Manager for Children & Adults with Developmental Disabilities
What about the digital arts field is attractive to you?
Digital arts combines two of my absolute favorite things in life: creativity and computers. I once saw a quote that read, "Contentment is when a person loves their work so much, that they lose themselves and time disappears." That's exactly what I feel like when I'm on my computer.
Why did you choose the DAC program?
What attracted me to the program was the opportunity to learn graphic and web design as a career--not just how to use computer applications, but a comprehensive program that included internships to help get started.
What have you learned from the program?
After a year in the DAC program I've learned a great deal about print, web and audio-video design. I have worked in programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Flash, Final Cut Pro, and Protools. My experience and my portfolio grows everyday.
What is the most rewarding part of your DAC experience?
As an evening DAC student, I work full-time during the day and attend classes at night. It is demanding but I have a greater sense of accomplishment when I complete a project.
Marybeth Rodriguez
Occupation: Investigator for the Department of Consumer Affairs
Why did you choose the DAC program?
When I graduated from high school, I desired a career in graphics. For many reasons, I avoided this path but continued to make the arts, including music, a hobby. With this program, I hope to gain the skills and business sense needed to make a career change a reality.
What kind of company would you like to work for?
My interest is entrepreneurial. In the DAC program I am working on a name and identity package for my own business.
What have you learned from the program?
I've discovered what a neophyte I am in this field. I went into the program thinking I knew more than I did. Now I'm learning how to make my way around software, and more importantly, I'm learning about visual communication as a whole.
What is the most rewarding part of your DAC experience?
Learning. I am trying to make this experience about the journey and not about the end goal. Right now, I want to learn from people in the industry, soak up as much creative juice as I can, and have fun with it.
Leslie Gartman
Occupation: Stay-at-home Mom,
former IBM Marketing Rep
When did you decide to return to school?
My younger son just entered middle school and I'd been struggling to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. Since my role as a mom has been downsized, I wanted something creative yet business oriented, and I wanted to be independent.
How did you chose the DAC program?
The daytime DAC program was a perfect fit for a mom. I could drop off and pick up my kids from school, and still be available to chauffeur them around.
What about the digital arts field is attractive to you?
The idea that I can support myself and be an artist at the same time.
What have you learned from the program?
Aside from the technical side, logo and brand identity, graphic arts tools and processes, I've learned how to learn again. Twenty years away from school is a long time. It's great to be back.
To learn more about the UCSD Extension Digital Arts Center call (858) 622-5739 or visit dac.ucsd.edu.
