Daniel Konicek Staff Writer

The Digital Design program at Pierce College is known for providing education in a wide variety of digital art and publishing programs, and for one student it has been a kickstart to a potential new career. As she nears the end of the certification, digital design student Kendra Pfeiffer tutors other students and anticipates a fresh start.

“I had just gotten laid off in 2012, so I had an opportunity, I thought it would be great to have a career and not just a job,” Pfeiffer said. “I thought it would be fun to have something that I enjoy doing. It was either art or animals, and art paid better and I already have five [animals] so I figured I would go for digital design.”

It can be incredibly confusing tackling the different programs and techniques. Luckily for them, Pfeiffer is there to help as an official tutor.

“I’ve always helped people out, I’ve actually had a background with some training in it, so it’s been my natural inclination to help them succeed.” Pfeiffer said. “I was already helping people out in Doreen’s classes last quarter and they announced they needed tutors, and Doreen said ‘You’d be great at it, go do it.’”

The choice of Digital Design has turned out well for her, as it aligns with interests she had long held.

I’ve always loved art; I didn’t think I could make a living of it years ago, but with all the technology and programs and stuff now, you can make a living at it,” Pfeiffer said. “It’s such a broad range of skills in the digital design program, and so far I’ve loved all of it. It doesn’t matter what direction I go with it, as long as I’m being creative and having fun.”

The decision to return to school itself has also been a positive experience for Pfeiffer. She has been able to practice traditional painting and drawing in addition to her digital assignments and tutoring. Her time at school has energized her.

“My last job wasn’t all that fun, so my confidence level in my artistic ability, people skills have all gone up; its fun being around people with the same likes and interests and the same kind of passions, and everybody in the program has just been great. From administration to whatever, it has just been a great experience.”

After she graduates in June, Pfeiffer will be looking for jobs in the digital design field. Her new skills could lead to many places, perhaps even to a dream job at Pixar. Whatever happens, Pfeiffer is taking away from Pierce something more than a list of skills and programs.

“Being back to school has made me happier than I have been in years. Its just been a great experience,” Pfeiffer said. “I’ve made a lot of close friends, people I want to stay in touch with, maybe one day we could open our own design firm, that would be awesome. Just meeting some new people and new experiences has just been great. I’ve learned a lot and there is so much more to learn.”