Nurturing Creativity: A journey through visual communications at UNL

As a graduate assistant, I teach multiple sections of the visual communications sequence at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). I lead groups of students into the world of multimedia and introduce them to the necessary concepts to succeed in the field. What they learn goes beyond lectures and textbooks. Students get a design-centered educational experience that fosters their understanding of content design principles and the diverse roles of media in our society.

In our sessions, students learn new skills through hands-on projects that transfer to the mass communications field. Not only do they broaden their creative media skills, but they also gain invaluable real-world experience in content development. They work alongside instructors and mentors to craft innovative stories that resonate in today’s dynamic media environment. But my role goes beyond being an instructor; I see myself as a facilitator, a mentor, and a resource for my students.

Whether it's guiding them through challenging projects or supporting their efforts to improve their skills, I'm there to help them reach their full potential. One of my former students, Kelly Khuu, says “Having Abbey as my instructor for some of the visual communication classes was an invaluable experience. Her guidance and expertise helped me develop my skills in traditional and digital content creation.” I urge my students to ask questions, get involved, and explore their interests.

Another opportunity students have is to immerse themselves in the college's experience lab. They gain hands-on experience, exploring their professional interests and building a skill set that prepares them for the demands of the media industry. Among the array of programs available, I support the Buoy agency. Students engage with real-world clients in an agency setting, providing creative and strategic services in advertising for non-profit organizations and community partners.

It's here that ideas turn into reality, and students get to execute their visions. This semester, one of my students and I embarked on a new project for Buoy called Change Makers. It serves as a contribution and gift to a local community impact organization. Not only is Kelly a student, but she is the Assistant Director for this project. Watching her apply her skills from the visual communications classes to client work is a rewarding experience.

As the semester unfolds and the journey continues, I find myself inspired by the passion and creativity of my students. I, along with the other faculty, are not just teaching visual communications; we are shaping the future of media, one project at a time. I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to be a part of student growth in an innovative industry I’m passionate about.