The Morris Lawrence building was brimming with creative work from more than 60 students in the WCC Digital Media Arts department as they displayed to prospective employers their portfolios in photography, graphic design, 3-D animation and digital video.
The WCC Digital Media Arts department is recognized for its state-of-the-art facilities which include a digital production center, a professional photography studio with darkroom facilities, a green screen and MacIntosh computer labs. Programs are structured for easy transfers to colleges such as the College For Creative Studies, the Brooks Institute School of Photography and Eastern Michigan University, among others.
Gala was open to the public
In addition to representatives from the business community in attendance, the annual gala was open for others at no charge and many purchased some of the student artwork that was on sale at the show.
The students’ portfolios were critiqued and evaluated by industry experts in the creative fields prior to the public showing. The interaction with professionals gave students constructive feedback as well as advice for a successful transition into the workplace. Companies represented included the The Ann Magazine, MidCoast Studios, Hile Creative LLC, Uproar Communications Ad Agency, Learning A-Z and Little Caesar’s Pizza, among others.
WCC faculty members stay on top of hiring trends
Dave Hile, founder and president of Hile Creative LLC in Ann Arbor, has reviewed the portfolios of WCC students for more than 10 years. Because of his partnership with the college and familiarity with its programs, he has hired two WCC students to work at his company. “I continue to be impressed by the preparedness of students coming out of WCC’s associate degree programs,” Hile said. “WCC programs are aimed at developing students with real-world skills and preparing them to make their mark in the competitive professional design community.” Hile gives credit to the dedicated WCC faculty and staff who regularly keep in touch with active professionals in the advertising and communications industry so they can stay current with the latest trends and hiring requirements. “The college simply does a great job.”
“Employers are seeking students who not only are talented creatively, but ones who hold a strong work ethic, present themselves well professionally and understand the importance of workplace demands such as meeting deadlines, preparing compelling proposals and writing production timelines,” said Ingrid Ankerson, WCC graphic design instructor.
“We structure our programs with a holistic approach by not just teaching the creative process, but also teaching the key elements necessary for success in the workplace.”
WCC photography student recognizes value of business skills
Dee Hurley, a WCC photography student who graduated at the 2015 May commencement ceremony with an associate degree in photography, had a wide array of her work on display at the show. “During my studies at WCC, I learned about the importance of sequencing photos to tell a story in the most compelling manner, Hurley said. “I also learned about the value of short-term and long-term goal setting, time management and the tools necessary to start my own business,” she said. A big part of her experience at WCC was making friendships with faculty and students who were there when she needed help and encouragement, she added. “I never knew it would be so amazing to be in classes with people that had the same goals as me. To meet people, make connections and go on this journey together will enlighten all our futures.”
For information about the Digital Media Arts department, visit www.wccnet.edu/academics/programs.