Alumni Profile: Kirk
Creative Director for Derse Exhibits
BFA in industrial design, class of 1984
When you first came to UIUC did you know for sure what you wanted to do as a major/career?
No.
How many majors/careers did you "go through" during your years here and how did you finally come to a choice?
I knew I wanted to major in a creative field, but needed to become familiar with the range of design opportunities. I was most interested in industrial design, after considering architecture and graphic design. After graduation, I discovered the exhibit industry, which required disciplines in 3-dimensional design (like architecture), and 2-dimensional work (graphic design). My experience at U of I began my career path, which I've enjoyed for 20 years.
What was one UIUC event, memory, person, class, that made a substantial difference in your career choices?
My first semester, we had an orientation class that introduced us to various disciplines in art and design. When I learned of industrial design, I made my decision to follow that path.
What was your first job after you earned your degree?
A design position with a small exhibit design and production firm in Chicago.
How did you land your first career related job?
I answered an ad in the Chicago Tribune.
Please list the positions you have held since graduation.
I have worked for 3 exhibit firms over the past 20 years (since graduation), as designer for the first 2, and now as creative director.
What advice would you give to an FAA student who might be interested in your current or past careers?
The exhibit business requires a sense of 2- and 3-dimensional design, marketing skills, and additional activities within an exhibit. Some designers and account executives have returned to school and acquired marketing degrees to enhance their skills.
What advice can you give an FAA student who is currently undecided about their future career?
Explore the opportunities, and look for the discipline you find most stimulating. I had various interests, and my profession allows me to entertain those interests. Be patient! Develop your skills, pay attention to detail, and demonstrate leadership and respect for those around you. Always serve not only yourself, but the interests of the people you work with. When I learned these lessons, success soon followed.