Mallory Heyer

What was your major and how did you choose it? Was it the right choice?

I originally started in illustration, but after taking Introduction to Graphic Design with Kindra Murphy, I discovered the world of design and how much I love it and switched my major. My decision also came from talking with multiple illustration graduates and finding out that they were working as designers. I wanted to make sure my skills were sharp for both fields. This was the right choice for me as I’m currently doing both, and I don’t think I would have found my current illustration opportunities if I didn’t have my design background.

Best thing you ever got on the free shelf?

I once found a giant roll of double stick paper. It was at least four feet tall. I used it to make a lot of sculptural design work in my senior year.

Tell us about your internship.

When I was at MCAD I realized how diverse the field of graphic design is, so I wanted to take as many internships as possible. My first internship was with the Dakota Jazz Club where I worked as an in-house designer, creating all of the design content for the venue and restaurant. After that, I got an internship in New York at MTV, worked on their print, animation, and branding content. I then worked at the Thorburn Group and mono, seeing what it was like to work in advertising. It was a great experience to work with a variety of clients and to see what sort of design I enjoyed working in the most.

Has your work evolved since leaving MCAD? How so?

Yes, I illustrate much more than I did while at MCAD (did not expect this to happen).

How do you network yourself and your art?

Instagram is the easiest way, some of my favorite freelance clients have found me through there.

What advice do you have for current MCAD students?

Save all of your readings, notes, and handouts. You'll eventually want to look back at them.