My name is Kaelen Smith, I use she/her pronouns and have been a UC employee for 15 months. I work as a graphic designer which is a part of the Student Activities and involvement department. Student Activities and Involvement aims to make all students feel engaged in campus life within the UC! SAI is to thank for all of the fun events held throughout the year!

What does an average day look like working for the UC? What does your position entail?

   There is no such thing as an average day while in the Graphics & Marketing office. We have so much fun and always have something to laugh about! As a Graphic Designer, my day starts with coming into the office, clocking in, and putting on my name tag. After that, I will work on a plethora of different tasks. Some of my tasks include creating event designs, printing posters, and administrative tasks. Every day in the Graphics & Marketing office is a day to cherish!

What does being a UC employee mean to you?

   I am very proud to be a UC employee! I love working here. It means so much to me to have been chosen to design for the Heart of Campus. I love what the UC does for student life on campus.

What are some of the most memorable days/moments working for the UC?

   Every day is a memorable day while #intheuc! My favorite moments in the Graphics & Marketing office are ones where the whole office is laughing (usually from too much caffeine!). I have some of the best coworkers and supervisor, so the office is always relaxed and vibey.

Why should students visit the UC?

   Students should visit the UC because there are SO many things to do here! Study, eat, meet friends, work, compete, learn, laugh, create, and so much more! There is something for EVERYONE here!

How will your position at the UC help you in your future career?

   I am very fortunate to have my Graphic Design position here. Being a Graphic Design major, this job has taught me valuable skills that will benefit me in my field post-grad. I have gotten hands-on experience on how a design office is run, and picked up skills I wouldn’t have learned in the classroom. There are many post-grad designers/marketers that come back for my office’s yearly “Alumni Panel”, which builds my network and gives me inside access to available employment where past UC Graphic Designers now work!

How do you balance school, work, extracurricular activities, and a social life?

   I have always been a very organized person, so learning to balance many different parts of my life has been an easy task for me. One thing I did learn in college is to be as serious about being actively social as I was about my academics. College is a one-of-a-kind experience, and people are SO open about meeting others. I make sure to give myself grace if I may need to shift my balance. For example, if I had a hard day of classes, I may re-energize myself by going to work or hanging out with friends, so that I can put 100% into class work at a later time. Be patient with yourself when adapting to a new environment and way of life!