SCAD Atlanta’s “The Connector” recently celebrated its ten-year anniversary, and in honor of this milestone some of our former Editors-in-Chief have shared their reflections on their time working for the publication. Osayi Endolyn (EIC from 2011-2012), Erin White (EIC from 2012-2014) and Arielle Antonio (EIC from 2014-2015) talk below about the benefits of working for The Connector, what they’ve done since graduating and their advice for artists seeking creative careers in the following interviews.
What was your favorite part of being on The Connector and SCAN?
Osayi Endolyn: I worked at student media because I wanted to participate in the editorial publication process … I wanted to experience the collaboration that comes with taking an idea from concept to final product and be able to do so while at every step along the way (to pitch, write / edit, art direct, and promote the work).
Erin White: Working with different students from other departments, glimpsing into other fields and learning basics, and thinking more collaboratively in my personal work. And, of course, learning about journalism and getting real world publishing experience from an expert like Jessica Clary.
Arielle Antonio: Definitely being able to meet and interact with so many amazing writers and artists. I got to work with some of the most talented, driven and craziest SCAD Atlanta students who inspire and push me. I wouldn’t have even applied for editor-in-chief if Erin White hadn’t encouraged me to do so. After that, I was lucky enough to find and work with a great team of editorial staff members as well who shared my vision for bigger and better things, like high-quality fashion shoots with fashion students. However, I didn’t just meet other SCAD students who were awesome. I also met college journalists from all over the country during my editor seminar and through the conventions. There’s a bunch of them that I’m still friends with now and they inspire me to be a better writer everyday.
How do you feel that working for these two publications has helped you in your professional life?
OE: The most immediate outcome was that my portfolio grew quite a bit. I was able to use my SCAN / Connector clips to secure assignments at publications that offered higher pay and boasted a wider readership, and those relationships helped me grow as a writer. Later, I realized that I had a pretty realistic understanding of how a magazine newsroom can function. That made me feel more comfortable when I actually took a seat at a table surrounded by longtime journalism pros.
EW: It’s made me not feel completely ridiculous as a writer in the post-collegiate world.
AA: I found my calling while working on The Connector and SCAN. I always thought I could only do one thing in college and graphic design ended up being the winner when I chose a major. However, at the ACP/CMA National College Media Convention in Philadelphia, I met a college media adviser from University of Idaho who told me something that blew my mind: I could do it all. I might not have ever come to that definite and liberating conclusion if I hadn’t been part of The Connector and SCAN Magazine. I also might not have had the discipline and confidence to actually follow through with it either. Working on The Connector and SCAN allowed me to explore all of my writing, designing and leadership abilities. Now I know what I am capable of in all kinds of situations and I am more confident in pursuing my goals.
What have you been doing after graduating from SCAD?
OE: I’ve contributed to multiple publications, including Atlanta magazine, New York Mag’s The Cut, Bitter Southerner, Burnaway, and Creative Loafing. I’ve worked as a copywriter, and currently work as a senior writer / content developer at IBM in addition to regular editorial freelancing.
EW: Unsuccessfully looking for a full-time writing job and subsequently deciding to start my own magazine.
What advice do you have for those seeking creative careers?
OE: Give yourself the gift of having options. You may feel partial to a certain genre or approach, whatever your focus, and that’s fine. Do that thing. But have the ability to depart from that niche, too. That additional skill could be the difference in helping you make rent or could determine whether or not you get to join your friends in Puerto Rico for a week.
EW: Become an artist out of necessity, not desire. And that you don’t need art school to be a professional writer.
AA: First and foremost, always take care of yourself. Take care of your mental, emotional and physical health selfishly. Nothing is worth hurting or overexerting yourself over; nothing is worth your sanity. You’ll need your health later to enjoy the fruit of your creative endeavors. Also, I would say not to forget what you’re actually trying to achieve. Homework is important for a grade, but employers aren’t looking at your grades when they hire you and barely your degree. They’re looking at your portfolio and professional experiences. Make sure you have a strong, diverse portfolio including projects that aren’t school assignments. Take advantage of extra activities outside of class that grow your experience and demonstrate your professional work ethic, not just your academics.
