Mathew Elpern

In my BFA program, I gained a strong, foundational education in visual communication, traditional design principles, and the fundamentals of marketing and brand strategy. The coursework blended classic art training with emerging digital tools, giving me a well-rounded understanding of how design functions both creatively and commercially.

I learned core skills in typography, layout, color theory, illustration, and print production—back when understanding prepress, paper selection, and mechanicals was essential. This grounding taught me how to build clean, intentional designs with strong hierarchy and purpose, whether for brochures, posters, identity systems, or advertising campaigns.

As digital design was becoming increasingly important, I trained in early web design standards, HTML basics, interface design, and the first versions of industry software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. I learned how to translate traditional design skills into digital formats, optimize graphics for screens, and think about user experience at a time when the web was still evolving.

The marketing portion of my degree focused on understanding audiences, consumer behavior, and brand positioning. I learned how to build campaigns across print, direct mail, early digital channels, and traditional media. Courses emphasized messaging, concept development, copywriting fundamentals, and how to align creative work with business and communication goals.

Most importantly, the program taught me how to combine creativity with strategy. Whether developing a brand identity, designing a layout, or planning a campaign, I learned to approach every project by balancing aesthetics, communication, and audience needs—skills that remain central to my work today.

In my Web Design & Development program, I built a strong foundation in creating functional, user-focused websites from the ground up. I learned core front-end skills including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, gaining the ability to structure pages, style interfaces, and add interactive elements using clean, standards-compliant code.

The coursework covered responsive design principles, user experience fundamentals, and how to plan intuitive site architecture through wireframes, mockups, and prototyping. I learned to prioritize accessibility, usability, and clear visual hierarchy in every project.

On the development side, I was introduced to server-side basics, content management systems, and essential concepts like PHP, MySQL, and form handling. I also gained practical experience customizing themes and templates in widely used CMS platforms.

The program emphasized problem-solving, versioning, workflow, and optimization—teaching me how to take a project from concept to deployment. I also developed skills in preparing web graphics, optimizing images, and working with design tools common in a professional environment. Overall, I learned how to blend design and code to create complete, functional, and user-friendly web experiences.

In my Fine Arts and Art History studies, I built a strong foundation in traditional art practices, visual communication, and hands-on craftsmanship. I trained in drawing, painting, color theory, composition, sculpture, mixed media, printmaking, and woodworking—developing versatility across both two-dimensional and three-dimensional mediums. The program emphasized observational skills, technique, creative exploration, and taking ideas from concept to completed work.

My Art History coursework provided a deeper understanding of major artistic movements, cultural context, symbolism, and the evolution of visual expression. I learned how to analyze and critique artwork, identify stylistic influences, and understand how art shapes and reflects society.

Overall, the program strengthened my technical abilities, expanded my creative thinking, and gave me a well-rounded grounding in both the practical and historical sides of visual art.