Member Spotlight: Jacqueline McAdams

Jacqueline McAdams

Name: Jacqueline McAdams
Professional Discipline(s): Graphic Design
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What is your overriding professional goal?

I would love to be in a position to be able to provide an environment for emerging designers to gain experience. I understand now that it can be tough for an emerging designer to gain the experience that so many companies require for their positions. It would be a dream to be able to provide a place, like where I am interning now, and watch designers come and develop their skills even further.

How do you explain what you do to ‘regular people?’

While probably sounding like Charlie Brown’s teacher, I tell them that it encompasses a multitude of what you use and see on a daily basis. The graphics create the essence of how you identify with a brand or product. Then I proceed to give an example that is the most relative to the given discussion or to them specifically.

What professional accomplishment are you proudest of?

Currently I am interning at Eye Integrated Communications where I work under a great group of people and learn so much. It has truly been an invaluable experience while I am finishing my last year of school. Also, in my last year, I have been hired on as the Assistant Editor of our Art & Literary magazine, The Rebel, at East Carolina University. I am so thankful to be able to work alongside the Rebel team and be hands-on with the production process.

What is your non-work creative outlet?

Getting my eye behind the lens and taking a hike outside. I gain so much from being able to take the time away from the computer even if it is for some fresh air. On rainy days, there is always TED Talks. (TED Talks were actually introduced to me at AIGA meetings by the Design for Good team.)

What’s your biggest design-related pet peeve?

Opening a document of someone else’s that has layers-for-days and no labels on the layers-for-days.

What is the last thing that made you laugh out loud?

My coaches, at my Crossfit gym in Greenville, told me that I should compete in weightlifting. The thought that I could be strong enough to compete as a lifter makes me laugh every time I think about it. Nonetheless, it is awesome to think that I could do that.

If you could wake up tomorrow having gained one ability or quality, what would it be?

Having the ability to increase my resourcefulness and applying it just as accurately.

Who is your favorite cartoon character?

My dad got me into Goofy at an early age. How can you not like the guy? He was my go-to for a good laugh.

Why are you involved with AIGA Raleigh?

The people and community are my reason for involvement. My introduction to AIGA was through a graduate of our program, Rich Griffis, at East Carolina University. He made the drive each month from Greenville, and he was an inspiration with his dedication and continued involvement in the unique design community in Raleigh.

What led you to volunteer or join the board?

I wanted to help other designers develop their skills and opportunities, as well as further integrate myself into the Raleigh design community.

What have you done as a board member or volunteer that you are most proud of?

Photographing the 2013 Junior Review was rewarding. I was honored to have been contacted to serve as a photographer for such an important event in the development of emerging designers’ careers.

What goals do you have for the future of the chapter?

I would love to get more people from our program at East Carolina University involved.

What have you seen other chapters do that was really cool?

Unfortunately, at this point I have only been able to travel as far as the AIGA Raleigh events.

 

By Amy Lyons
Published April 1, 2014