10 Questions for our alumni
Rebecca Guyette, BA, Art Education, 2006
1. Why did you choose to attend Grand Valley?
Both my parents studied at GVSU and when my only sister also decided to attend GVSU, it just became family tradition.
2. How or why did you choose your major or main emphasis area?
It was never really a question in my mind. I was raised in a family passionate about the arts, freedom of expression, and social justice. I grew up in a small town with limited arts and culture opportunities so my family vacations often included going to museums, events, and performances. Both my parents were artists and educators who taught me the value and power of the arts.
3. What advice do you have for future students thinking about colleges?
Find a college that encourages you to become a lifelong learner. Take classes that expose you to new ideas, learn from other people's lived experiences and prioritize exploring your passions. I also highly recommend studying abroad for a semester.
4. What advice do you have for current students thinking about careers?
1. You spend the majority of adult life working, so be sure to
incorporate your passions and interests into career goals.
2.
Start building a professional network while still in college, through
peers, community groups, internships and volunteerism. It makes it way
easier to enter the job market.
3. It's not always clear what the
next steps are, but that's okay. You may have to carve your own
path.
5. What did you do after graduating?
I worked many part-time and contract jobs teaching in after-school programs, studio spaces as well as substitute teaching. After that I landed a job managing educational programs for the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA). I worked at the UICA for about 6 years before taking a position working for the West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology (WMCAT).
6. What are you doing now?
I am now the Director of Learning & Engagement for ArtPrize.
7. How have you used the skills you developed in your field of study in your life and/or career after GVSU?
Every experience, class, job helped shape and define new skills I use in both my life as well as career.
8. What is the best advice you got from an instructor at Grand Valley?
Do meaningful work.
9. What is your favorite memory of being a student at Grand Valley?
There are too many! I loved being part of the visual art department, such amazing people to learn and grow with.
10. Anything else you would like to share with our Visual and Media Arts Community?
Education is a gift. Take it all in and be sure to give it your all.
__________
Image Credits: Rebecca Guyette.
Interest Area(s)
Art Education
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