Former BHS Students Ashton Temple graduated in 2014. Ashton is currently attending the University of Iowa. She was accepted into their graphic design program, and is loving it.

Was it difficult getting into graphic design at such a large school?

• “It was most definitely not an easy process. My freshman year I had to take a core program with all of the other first year design students; after taking this core program I had to go through a portfolio review process. My portfolio consisted of all of my work from my freshman year studios and a few pieces of artwork from over the years. Along with my portfolio I had to write an essay and have a high GPA . I was 1 of 65 students accepted into the Graphic Design Program this year, there were over 300 that applied.”

Did you take any classes in high school that helped you learn more about graphic design?

• “I would say AP Art with Ms. Carlisle was a huge aide in my success at Iowa State, she taught me so much about drawing and layouts. I owe her a lot.”

How long have you known you wanted to be a part of graphic design?

• “Since my senior year in high school I knew I wanted to go into the Graphic Design field.”

What’s the hardest and most fun parts of college?

• “Not putting off deadlines; professors typically give you all of your deadlines at the beginning of the semester in your syllabus and if you don’t write them down or continue to review the syllabus you’ll miss deadlines. And sometimes 3 weeks to finish a project may sound like a lot but with all of your other studios and classes, club commitments, sorority activities and your social life the deadlines come a lot faster than expected.”

What are your future plans with this degree?

• “I’m planning on minoring in Advertising and Photography with my Graphic Design degree and ultimately I’d love to work for a major magazine company designing their page layouts and spreads. I also have recently started my own photography business and it has really taken off the ground running and I’m excited to see where that takes me too!”

Do you enjoy graphic design so far?

“I could not be any happier to be in the Graphic Design program at Iowa State! They staff is amazing and I continue to learn so much every day.”