Today we’d like to introduce you to Veronica Newell.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For as long as I can remember, my hands have been making things. As a kid, I remember digging clay out of the backyard to make tiny sculptures and spending days stretched out on the living room floor crafting handmade Christmas cards for my family.
My parents were so supportive of my creative interests at such a young age. They made sure I got every opportunity to explore my artistic side throughout my academic career and encouraged me to try new things. Throughout my school years I took every art class I could get my hands on – scrapbooking, jewelry making, origami, stained glass.
I always knew I wanted to do something with my career that involved art, so in high school I started to focus more on graphic design. There were some great mentorship programs which gave me the opportunity to learn from graphic designers in the area.
My college experience at UNT in one of the most competitive design programs in the country was challenging. Facing demanding professors, harsh critiques, dozens of all-nighters and 4 a.m. mental breakdowns pushed me past my limits and truly taught me the meaning of hard work. But the struggle was worth it – I realized I was capable of much more than I had ever imagined. And my education gave me the knowledge and confidence I needed to pursue my career as a designer.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
College was definitely a struggle. But there’s no bigger obstacle than that voice in the back of your mind telling you that you can’t do it, that you’re not good enough. Self-doubt is an obstacle that I have to overcome every day. In such a competitive field, it’s easy to look at amazing designers and start getting down on yourself that you’re not quite there yet. When this happens I remind myself to focus on how far I’ve come and remember everything I have already overcome. It’s important to realize the only thing standing in your way is you. If you look back and realize you’ve grown- that’s the most important form of success.
Please tell us about your business.
In my current role as a designer at Fossil, I am responsible for designing web experiences and digital marketing campaigns. Recently, I have expanded into packaging design and large scale seasonal creative concepting. One of my strengths is taking a multidimensional approach to design. Having experience in the different facets of a campaign, from web to print, makes for a conceptually stronger creative process.
As a designer and artist it’s essential to explore other creative outlets. Last year I took a cake decorating class to get one step closer to my secret second dream of being a pastry chef. The class ended up being a lot of fun and my detail-oriented design skills translated well to cake decorating. I’ve made a few birthday cakes for friends and even a commissioned cake.
What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
For young women who are just starting their journey- seek out opportunities, don’t wait for them to find you. Don’t be afraid to take on new roles and responsibilities and learn along the way. Trying something new can help broaden your horizons and increase the value of your career. And the only way to grow is to step outside your comfort zone.
Which women have inspired you in your life? Why?
My mother and grandmother are my inspirations. My mom has always unequivocally believed in me and supported my career, even though their child becoming an art major would be most parents’ worst nightmare. And my grandmother taught me the importance of going to college and the power of an education. Being raised by strong, independent, hard-working women has made a world of difference in who I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: veronicanewell.com
- Email: vnveronicanewell@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronickers/
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