JSU held its annual JSU Student Symposium in February 2022, and the College of Arts and Humanities enjoyed some amazing presentations by its students. Sarah Kate Norris, a Graphic Design major, was awarded Best of College of Arts and Humanities with her presentation, Kirk’s Soap Ad Campaign.

What are some benefits of your major?

Art, as an all-encompassing idea, is satisfying to many, but it is so much more than something “pretty.” Art truly gives us historical insight into our world and acts as a record of world history. So much can be derived from it if we look. As far as my major, Graphic Design, I enjoy being able to try to solve problems creatively and create visual solutions to those problems. 

What can you tell us about your work that won Best of CAH at the Student Symposium?

My Ad Campaign was a really fun project. I relied heavily on art history – as well as some general history – in order to create a concept for an ad for a product, and I got to express that visually through posters. Pretty fun!

What is your favorite thing about JSU?

I love the friends and communities I’ve gotten involved in here. I am also so thankful that the faculty in the art & design department really invest in their students because it shows. I feel part of something bigger than just a class project sometimes, and that goes a long way.

What clubs/organizations are you involved in?

I’m not currently involved in any clubs/organizations, and that is one regret I do have so.. It’s so important (and fun!) to get involved and create connections with people in your field.

Why would you recommend participating in the Student Symposium to another student?

It’s a great opportunity to grow presentation skills! It’s also an incredible place to see how far the students of each school are diving into their research and studies.

What is one way that you have grown during your time at JSU?

I have accepted a lot of failures. I have accepted not getting into shows or having my work accepted into competitions. I look forward to looking at my work and trying to improve. 

What is your favorite course that you have taken?

Any ceramics class (seriously, I love ceramics), Screenprinting, and Game Design! Tops!

What do you plan to do after you graduate?

I hope to get a job within the Creative Market in Arkansas. I also plan to continue to work on things I have to improve on and continue to learn. 

What advice do you have for first-year students?

Definitely get involved if you can. Try to do more of what makes you uncomfortable; it really pays off.