09 Jul From Sketches to Studio Work: Lydia’s Path in Graphic Design and Printing
Some careers start with childhood passions. For Lydia Chume, it began at age five with a simple love for drawing faces. That early interest turned into a path of creativity, technology, and a clear plan for the future.
Now 21, Lydia is in her third year at Riverside City College studying both graphic design and digital media with a focus on printing. She is set to graduate this fall and already has her eyes on her next steps.
Finding Direction Through Design
As she grew up, Lydia realized that fine art was her passion, but graphic design could offer more career stability. She wanted to create art people could enjoy every day—from logos and packaging to custom merchandise. That led her to explore printing and packaging design, where she could bring her creative ideas into the real world.
“I got into design because it is a more dependable way of selling your artwork,” she says. “And I really like packaging design.”
Lydia found a home in the printing program at Riverside City College, where she had access to a variety of machines and hands-on learning. Her time there gave her the tools she needed to bring her artistic vision to life and prepare for work in a real-world setting.
Looking Ahead
When she graduates, Lydia hopes to work for a company as a graphic designer while also illustrating children’s books on the side. Her journey shows that combining passion with planning can lead to a creative and stable future.
For anyone considering this path, she offers a strong recommendation. “RCC has a really good printing program. You get to use the presses and do so many different things. There is a variety of machines to learn on.”
Want to Explore a Career in the Trades?
Lydia’s journey proves that creative careers are not limited to galleries or museums. Trades like graphic design and printing offer hands-on opportunities and real career paths.
Start exploring your future in the trades today. A creative career might be the next step you are looking for.
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