This week I thought I would write something about the educational institutions that I’ve attended and the reason why I chose each at the time. When I graduated from Lincoln High School, I had no strong ideas as to what I wanted to do. As long as I can remember, I loved to draw and paint but felt that I was not proficient to pursue a career as a graphic artist. I also enjoyed the challenge of mathematics, so one of my math teachers suggested looking into computer programming. On “career night”, I spoke with a representative of Southeast Area Vocational School. I then attended and graduated two years later with a diploma in “Data Processing I & II.” I think back on that night now, and remember having to look up in our encyclopedia what computer programming all entailed.
After I graduated, I worked for Stewarts Computer Engineering and Sioux Valley Hospital as a computer programmer and systems analyst for about 15 years. During this time, my father died, and I began to realize that “life is short.” I also realized that although my parents could not afford to send me to college post high school, I innately had a desire to obtain a 4-year degree. I began taking core classes to obtain a BS in computer science from DSU through the University Center in Sioux Falls. Later, however, I changed my course of study to computer graphics again from DSU. Unfortunately, DSU decided to cancel this program in the Sioux Falls University Center location. Because I had young children at the time, I was not able to commute to Madison to complete this course of study. However, one of my design professors was also a professor at Augustana College, and he suggested that I look into their Graphic Arts degree. I then transferred to Augustanta College, but this time, I decided to register as a full-time student. Unfortunately, because of the demands of my young family, I found myself overextended and only attended there one semester. Fate, however, was smiling down on me because while attending an Art History class, I met another nontraditional student whom I had worked with at Sioux Valley Hospital. He was also working on a 4-year degree but from University of Sioux Falls. By his suggestion, I again transferred to USF and attended classes there on a part-time basis. At this time, the Art professors who taught the Adobe software were in a transitional phase and I felt that I wanted to graduate at this time. I graduated from the University of Sioux Falls, summa cum laude, with a degree in Art.
After graduating from USF, I worked for a variety of businesses which were not related to the world of art until I began to work for Mary Selvig Framing. However, I still felt that I had a desire to combine computer skills with my love of art. It wasn’t until an “artist” friend of mine who had just graduated from STI’s welding program (She owns a stained glass business and also uses her welding knowledge to create sculptures.) suggested that I check out their Media Design program.
After four attempts to obtain graphic design skills, I feel very “at home” at Southeast Technician Institute. Some days, as a nontraditional student, I feel that I stick out like a sore thumb, but at the same time, I feel that finally I am in the right place at the right time.
