The last nine months have been a transformative and deeply reflective journey for me. Finishing my Design MFA at UT Austin was a significant milestone, but it was more than just the end of an academic pursuit—it was the culmination of personal growth, creative evolution, and an exploration of systemic issues I’ve encountered firsthand. My final exhibition focused on how students of color struggle to find their footing in the design industry, where inclusivity often remains elusive, and the pathways to success are fraught with unseen barriers. This project was deeply personal, giving voice to experiences that are too often overlooked in our field, and providing a platform to discuss the nuanced challenges of breaking into the industry as an underrepresented designer.

 

Beyond the exhibition, I encountered a new challenge: navigating the transition from student to educator. This journey is far more complex and uncharted than one might expect. Securing a university-level teaching position involves a maze of unwritten rules and unexpected obstacles, with no step-by-step guide for balancing academic expectations, research, professional practice, and the logistics of job hunting. It's a continuous learning curve that is both thrilling and overwhelming. I am eager to find a role where I can support students in their pursuit of creative work that is not only fulfilling, but also prepares them to pivot, reassess, and ultimately thrive in their careers. This should be the standard baseline—where students of color can actively shape industries, influence trends, and drive the creative landscape forward.

 

Adding to this challenge is the harsh reality of today’s job market in design, where industry shifts are rapid and unforgiving. The rise of AI and other technological innovations has altered the landscape, redefining the skills and roles that were once the bedrock of the profession. Learning to adapt to these changes is critical, but it often feels like the ground is constantly shifting beneath your feet. The job search has been a test of patience and resilience, made even more complex by the subtle but pervasive issue of ageism. After decades in the field, I’ve noticed that certain roles, particularly in creative or technology-driven sectors, seem to favor younger talent. There’s often a perception that innovation and youthful energy are synonymous, which can feel alienating for those of us who bring decades of experience and a seasoned perspective to the table. Navigating these assumptions while staying true to my professional worth has been an unexpected challenge in this career transition.

 

Despite these hurdles, I’ve learned the importance of staying positive, not just for my own peace of mind, but as a means of remaining adaptable in an ever-changing field. Resilience is essential—the ability to evolve, to keep learning, and to recognize that the value of experience doesn’t diminish with time but instead deepens.

 

Through it all, I am profoundly grateful to the incredible community that has supported me. To my professors at UT Austin and across the country who nurtured my curiosity, I owe so much of my growth to your guidance. You have consistently challenged me to push beyond what I thought was possible, both in my creative work and academic pursuits. I’m also deeply thankful for the professionals I’ve met along the way—their advice, mentorship, and friendship have been invaluable as I navigate this next chapter. These relationships have not only sustained me but reminded me of the strength that comes from community and shared purpose.

 

This period of transition, marked by both the excitement of new opportunities and the uncertainties of industry shifts, has been one of the most challenging phases of my career. Yet, I move forward with a sense of optimism and gratitude, knowing that the support of my community and the lessons I’ve learned will guide me through whatever lies ahead.