Giselle Carrasquilla
Degree: B.F.A. in Graphic Design
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Orlando, Florida
How did you first get interested in art?
Whether it was drawing pictures or dance recitals, I showed an interest in art from an early age. What began as constant doodling as a child grew into multidisciplinary art classes throughout middle and high school. Although I eventually grew out of my dance classes, I dedicated my time to illustration, mixed media, and photography. It wasn’t until I took a Media Arts class in my freshman year of high school that I discovered my love for graphic design. I am incredibly grateful to my teachers Mr. Pierce and Mrs. Allen who encouraged me to apply to shows, chose me to become a member of a district wide student board dedicated to recognizing other student’s artwork and curating juried shows, and led me to take AP Studio Art my senior year in which I scored a 5 on my final portfolio. Without them, I never would have considered making my passion into my career.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I have been in the print industry for nearly three years. I was hired by a production company who produced a magazine I worked on in high school right before I graduated. I spent my time there designing wide format signage, apparel, and more for schools and companies in Mecklenburg and gained valuable experience about the industry before and during my first year at UNC Charlotte. I then began working at a local print shop near Davidson College. As a graphic designer there, I work on anything from business cards to banners mostly promoting business and local events. I also recently completed an internship with Burt’s Bees working on packaging design and social media. While I spent my summer at their headquarters in Durham, I was able to see the inner workings of the creative department within the company and get a glimpse of what life could be like after graduation. With these experiences, I could see myself in a career designing for print or packaging, but I’d love to explore anything within communications design or digital marketing.
What is your favorite thing about the Department of Art & Art History?
My favorite thing about the graphic design department at UNC Charlotte is how close knit we are. Our class sizes are usually only 10-20 people so we’re able to form great connections within our cohort and with our professors. Thanks to these smaller settings I’ve not only been able to receive individualized feedback and advice, but also create strong friendships among the people I am moving through this program with.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts/design community?
I currently work as a graphic designer at a print shop near Davidson College. There, I get to work on signage and promotional business materials that can be seen in Davidson and the surrounding Lake Norman area. Being able to connect with my community in a way that also grows my skills as a designer is something I am very grateful for. I am also a staff designer for Midas Magazine on campus. Working for Midas is fun and fast paced and seeing it all pay off at the end of each semester is so rewarding. My favorite thing about both of these positions is bringing ideas to life, whether it is a business card or a spread in a magazine, seeing someone’s face light up when holding the printed result in their hands will never get old.
How has your scholarship helped you?
I am a recipient of the Irma Irene Mull Memorial Scholarship, the E. Hudson Graphic Design Award, and the Broderick Ade Hogue Memorial Scholarship. Without these generous donations, I would not be able to study what I love here at UNC Charlotte.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
When I’m not in class or working, I can usually still be found designing in my free time! To keep my screen time to a somewhat reasonable amount, I also love reading, photography, taking care of my many houseplants, and going to Charlotte FC games!