Career Roadmap
Joey's work combines: Environment & Nature, Design, and Problem Solving
See more careers and stories that connect to your interests.
Take Roadmap QuizSkills & Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
West Henderson
Bachelor's Degree
Architecture
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Bachelor's Degree
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be an Art Directors:
High School
Bachelor's Degree: Design and Visual Communications, General
Learn more about different paths to this careerLife & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
I always loved creating, even from a young age.
2.
I was active in grade school, taking any opportunity to do public art.
3.
I went to college for architecture, seeing it as the highest form of art.
4.
Took an unpaid internship at a local start up doing graphic design.
5.
Freelanced and worked with other start ups as a designer.
6.
Focused on Bella Love and serve them as their Creative Director.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Peers:
You should find a steady job at an architectural studio or something.
How I responded:
I loved architecture and it taught me a lot of really important lessons. I would definitely go back again if I had the choice. However, the corporate landscape tends to stiffen creativity, even in a creative environment. The start up world is rich with ideas and people who need help realizing them. The payment is rich in passion and good vibes and, possibly down the road, fiscally rich as well. But don't go into a start up with the intention of making money, you won't fit in.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
Everything takes money to accomplish. Look to your own lifestyle for solutions. Spend less and live more. It's possible if you really want it.
The expectations can be incredibly high when you are the first to go to college. Don't let that pressure get to you and don't equate success with money. Find your passion and pursue it.