It’s that time of year! We’re here to recognize and celebrate our amazing NYIAD Graduate of the Year finalists!
Each year, we invite recent graduates to submit their stories and tell us about their journey to earn their diploma or degree in our Graduate of the Year Contest. We review hundreds of inspirational stories to find our finalists and winners, who are selected by a committee of Penn Foster Group employees and instructors.
Our three finalists were selected out of many terrific submissions from recent graduates. These three represent what we exemplify at the New York Institute of Art & Design—helping students follow their creative passions. We are proud of our graduates and alumni because they make the world more beautiful.
Let’s meet NYIAD’s Graduate of the Year finalists!
Read more: Stack Skills to Build the Career You Want
Rita Khan
A year ago, Rita Khan switched careers from property management to working at a law firm doing digital marketing. She had always been interested in marketing and advertising but didn’t have formal training. After enrolling in the graphic design program, Rita learned skills she could use immediately.
NYIAD: How do you incorporate graphic design into your role at the law firm?
Rita: I started as the digital marketing manager, overseeing all the firm’s marketing efforts, including websites and ads. Through the program, I learned how to better use graphic design to convey our message. The feedback I received on assignments helped me improve quickly, which led to my promotion to director of marketing in January.
NYIAD: Do you think your education helped you get the promotion?
Rita: Absolutely. I think it would have taken longer without it. The immediate shift in my design skills was noticeable, and I received a lot of compliments on my work after starting the program.
NYIAD: What was your favorite part of the course?
Rita: I loved the assignments and the hands-on tasks that allowed me to apply what I was learning. The one-on-one feedback was incredibly helpful, guiding me on what to improve and how to refine my style.
NYIAD: What advice do you have for anyone looking into going to school for graphic design?
Rita: Do it! It’s educational and fun. The skills I’ve gained have not only helped me in my career but also brought me a lot of satisfaction in seeing my designs come to life.
From mediocre to marvelous, Rita’s graphic design skills improved and took her to new heights at her job. We can’t wait to see what’s in store for Rita.
Learn more about NYIAD’s Graphic Design Course
Jenny Fox
During the COVID lockdown, interior designer and artist Jenny Fox stumbled upon NYIAD’s Personal Styling program. Working from home, she felt like a stranger in her own changing body. With the skills she learned, Jenny turned her newfound body acceptance and passion for fashion into a star-studded styling career.
NYIAD: Was there a moment during the program when you realized you wanted to pursue styling as a career?
Jenny: It was probably halfway through that I was like, I can really make something of this. The program itself kind of awakened that want to connect with people and style them because I know if I'm having this challenge, I know so many people that are my age or younger that are also having this challenge.
NYIAD: Did you have any previous experience running your own business?
Jenny: I had an interior design business prior, but I think that that was not my passion. Reconnecting with styling again in my 40s, it just transformed my life. It's not a chore anymore. It’s that old saying, do what you love and you'll never work a day in your life.
NYIAD: What was your favorite part of the program?
Jenny: I think my favorite part was learning all of the designers and the different styles, really immersing myself. I love history in general, so I really loved learning about the designers and the fashions.
She told us that no matter your age, you can reignite your childhood passion, learn new skills, and put them to work.
Learn more about NYIAD’s Personal Style Course
Mariah Terrell
NYIAD grad Mariah Terrell began her professional journey in cosmetology, a field she loved but struggled to survive on during the 2020 pandemic. While she had time to think about her future, Mariah discovered she was interested in interior design. This curiosity quickly blossomed into a passion.
NYIAD: How did you explore your interest in interior design during the pandemic?
Mariah: During the shutdown, I eagerly joined my dad in renovating our home. I gained invaluable skills by delving into tasks like flooring, painting, woodworking, and crafting furniture. Meanwhile, my mom and I bonded over HGTV, particularly Fixer-Upper, sparking my fascination with design.
NYIAD: It sounds like your family played a big role in fueling your passion. Were there any moments that solidified your decision to pursue this career?
Mariah: Visiting Magnolia in Waco, Texas, was a highlight, igniting my determination to pursue my dreams.
NYIAD: What made you want to enroll in NYIAD’s interior design program?
Mariah: I enrolled in NYIAD to deepen my understanding of interior design and AutoCAD. It's proven to be one of the best decisions I've ever made, fostering my confidence and passion for my craft. NYIAD has been instrumental in my growth, fueling my love for design even further!
In addition to her growing interior design business, Mariah is active in her community, volunteering at her church and other outreach organizations.
Learn more about NYIAD’s Interior Design Course
Are you ready to turn your creative passions into a profitable career? An online art and design program like the courses at NYIAD can help you pursue your dream job. If our graduates’ stories have inspired you, call our Admissions Team at 1-800-583-1742 to learn more about our self-paced online design courses.
