Alumni Spotlight: Jasdeep Kaur

I had an incredible experience in the Visual Communications program at KU! The curriculum not only covered essential design foundations and principles, but it also included hands-on classes focused on building a strong portfolio and crafting effective resumes. This preparation was key for me—I landed my first job just a month before graduation!

The Visual Communications program is one of the best in Kansas, which makes it competitive but also very rewarding. The professors are dedicated and genuinely invested in our success, pushing us to refine our skills and deepen our understanding of design. Their guidance on projects helped me develop a critical eye for detail and a strong sense of aesthetics.

Currently, I’m an Assistant Graphic Designer on the Design & Creative team at Burns & McDonnell, an engineering firm. KU played a pivotal role in shaping my career by providing a solid foundation in graphic design. I took several UI/UX classes that have been particularly beneficial in my current role, where understanding user experience is crucial. The practical skills I gained in typography and publication design have been invaluable, allowing me to contribute effectively to various projects.

One of the most important lessons from my time at KU was learning how to take and apply constructive feedback. We engaged in peer critiques frequently, which not only helped me grow as a designer but also prepared me for navigating client feedback in my job today. Learning to embrace and implement feedback has become a vital part of my creative process, and I truly appreciate how that skill was nurtured during my studies.