5 in 5 featuring Stephanie Grey

Welcome to The Orchard's 5 in 5: a conversation series with accomplished professionals reflecting on their college choices with 5 questions asked & answered in 5 minutes! 

The transcript below features Stephanie Grey, Graphic Designer & Professor at Framingham State University  

Question #1: Where did you go to college?

Carnegie Mellon University

I also continued my studies with a Master's of Fine Arts in Graphic Design at The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). 

Question #2: Why did you select your college?

I went to a pre-college program at Carnegie Mellon during the summer between my junior and senior years of high school. While in the program I studied printmaking, graphic design, and sculpture. I learned how to document my work and produced several pieces for my portfolio. I loved this experience so much that I decided I wanted to go there for college, plus I got advice from a professor there who thought I would do well. He told me I was doing the kind of work needed to excel as a college student. 

I grew up in Pittsburgh and that's where Carnegie Mellon is located. Initially, I didn't think I wanted to stay locally in my hometown, but again I fell in love with the school. What really cemented my decision was the professor's feedback and not long after my pre-college experience I had a positive interview at a portfolio review day. This encouragement really made me feel connected, otherwise I think I would have been intimidated about applying. 

Question #3: What did you major in?

Graphic Design. My major really taught me to think beyond what I thought I knew about design, and how meaningful it could be, especially the impact of iconic symbols in our everyday society.

Question #4: What is the best thing you learned in college?

I learned how to problem solve and how to work hard to get things done. My work ethic was really shaped during my college years and has served me very well in my professional life. I also learned it's not about being perfect, especially when you're going through your undergraduate years. It's not going to be perfect, so you learn to carry those things that are important, and there will be things that you leave behind. As I evolved and grew, this became the kind of experience that I really relished and I was in my element in college.

Question #5: Was higher education worth it?

Absolutely, my chosen field is way over saturated. Anybody with a computer can call themselves a graphic designer, but my education gave me a foundation, allowed me to stand out, and gave me the flexibility to adapt. I received a quality education with the knowledge and tools to keep up with technology too.