Courtney Saunders
(senior, graphic design)
What was the process like to become Art Director for AUSA?
The process was very simple. The current AUSA President, Kyara Samuels reached out to me to offer me the role. Once I showed interest, she then set up an interview--and the rest is history.
As Art Director for AUSA, what do your duties entail?
I am responsible for creating promotional materials for AUSA events. In order to do this, I am constantly in contact with the officers, especially with Malachi Regis, who is the Social Vice President, to get updates on when the next event is. I also ensure that my very talented assistant, Taylor Humphrey, has all the necessary information and tools to update the AUSA bulletin board in the Student Center.
What have been some challenges you have faced in this position?
The most challenging aspect of this position has been the moments that require me to create promotional materials under a short timeframe. Due to the fact that I am a student and have another job position, short deadlines force me to prioritize my time wisely.
What have been your favorite parts about being Art Director?
I’ve really enjoyed working with my teammates. Collaborating with the different officers has really produced some amazing flyers.
What have been some of your favorite projects you have made for AUSA and why?
Three of my favorite AUSA projects have been the AUSA shirts, the Christmas album cover art, and the flyer for the Drive-In Movie Night. Creating the AUSA shirts was really fun. I wanted the shirt to reflect the school year we had in a unique way. As a result, it took a long time because of the small details. Illustrating the Christmas album was also a favorite. Since it was over Christmas break, I could take my time to really think of a cover that reflected the type of music on the album. Lastly, I enjoyed making the flyer for the Drive-In Movie. The simple design captured the vibes that the Social VP was really anticipating and wanted to portray to the students.
What is your major and how does it connect to your role?
Every aspect of being an Art Director connects to my major as a graphic designer. As a graphic designer, I create visuals to communicate important information. This job position has done just that. Interacting with my teammates has prepared me for when I start working in the professional world with real clients.
What are your other hobbies?
I love hanging out with my friends and collecting fanny packs. And when the weather is warm, I love taking long walks on the beach and watching the sunset.
What are your plans after college?
The answer is quite simple: I don’t have a final answer yet. However, I know that I plan to utilize the skills that have been cultivated in college, in both graphic design and engineering (my minor), to design visuals that can spark conversation, contemplation, and creativity.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.