Seeing the World with New Depth
Seeing the World with New Depth
By Vivian DiSalvo (Class of 2026)
Just four years ago, Ella Joy Lawson (’26) sat in her first graphic design class. Now, a senior graduating this weekend with her bachelor’s in graphic design, her perspective on life has permanently changed.
Lawson will leave the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, not only with an impressive understanding of graphic design and a portfolio born of professional experience but also with a Volunteer’s drive to pour into students and the university—just as alumni did for her.
From learning in the classroom to completing hands-on projects to helping plan a senior showcase for her cohort, Lawson spent her final semester on Rocky Top immersed in graphic design and preparing for her next chapter as an alumna. Because even though she’s graduating, she’ll be a Volunteer for life.
Here’s what Lawson had to say about her time at UT and how alumni helped put her on a path toward success.
Q: What was your time as an undergraduate student like?
A: On my first day, my professor told us that we would never see the world the same after learning graphic design, and she was right. Through my education, the world gained a newfound sense of depth, and I perceive everything differently now. UT and my time as an undergraduate graphic design student changed everything for me, and I appreciate things more now because of what I’ve learned, which I’ll take into my career professionally.
The UT alumni network is truly an invaluable resource. With alumni all over the US, it’s easy for me to find connections not only to launch my career, but to continue to grow and build a community even after graduation.”
Ella Joy Lawson (’26)
Q: What was it like planning your graphic design cohort’s senior showcase?
A: At the end of the academic year, the graphic design cohort puts together a senior show to commemorate our time at UT and showcase the work we’ve done. Our entire class pooled together ideas, but they voted for my theme—Curtain Call—as the theme for the showcase. The theme centers on theatre and focuses on our “finale” as seniors. Putting together this show has definitely been one of my proudest accomplishments from my time at UT. I was really daunted by this at first, but it was such an honor to lead the classmates I’ve grown with these past four years into their final bow. It’s so cool to see these designers step into the real world. I don’t doubt any of their abilities, and I loved getting to lead such a talented group.
Q: How have alumni impacted your time at UT?
A: Alumni have really transformed my time at UT. One of my professors, Lindsey Brine (’04), is an alum who has continually poured into me and my education. She’s so passionate about what she does and is an extremely accomplished designer. In my last semester, I met with her to discuss her career path, and she helped me decipher my career path as well. She even helped me secure a job through a connection she had at a graphic design agency in Memphis. The UT alumni network is truly an invaluable resource. With alumni all over the US, it’s easy for me to find connections like these not only to launch my career, but to continue to grow and build a community even after graduation.
Q: Why is alumni engagement important for student success?
A: There have been many alumni that have met with our cohort, whether virtually or in person, to teach us about different career pathways in graphic design, which has really shaped my understanding of life beyond the college bubble. When alumni come back and speak to us, it gives me hope for my future as a graphic designer. Our alumni have shown me that the world is my oyster, and anything is possible through the spirit of a Volunteer. The impact they’ve had on me has made me want to give back, too, once I graduate.
There are so many ways you can ignite success for current Vols! If you want to invest in students, check out getting involved in an alumni council or your local alumni chapter.
See some of Ella’s work below.
