THE FULL STORY
Native to Cleveland, Ohio, I grew up with an understanding of dependability and attention to detail. Creative problem solving and artistic influence played a major role in my decision to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Design Studies at West Virginia University. I chose to double minor in both Fashion Business and Communications, helping me generate unique thoughts and ideas that are interconnected across all design platforms. My sociable personality and commitment to constant improvement foster a cohesive work environment where individual ideas are encouraged and shared.
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INSPIRATION
"The designer does not begin with some preconceived idea. Rather, the idea is the result of careful study and observation, and the design a product of that idea."
- Paul Rand
I was taught as a youth to pursue my goals through hard work, instilling in me a prevalent hunger to be successful. At 21 years old I have worked for and networked with a variety of notable companies that have blessed me with relative experience in various industries. I’m eager to explore the unknown with hopes of expanding my general knowledge and skillset to perform at the highest level. My work ethic and design portfolio are inspired by the people and places I have come in contact with as a young adult. During the summer of 2019, I packed my bags in Cleveland and flew to Portland, Maine to work for Camp Cobbossee – an exclusive all boys sports camp – where I spent my days working the lakefront as a Water Sports Instructor. I managed boats and sporting equipment and was able to develop an understanding of their functionality and design. Many of the footwear concepts in my portfolio are inspired by the products I worked with at Camp Cobbossee. My interest in the outdoors, professional sports, and living a healthy lifestyle have transformed my view on what it means to be a successful product designer. Athletes and adventurers alike maintain a positive mentality to reach championships or mountain peaks, showcasing an intrinsic drive that we all have – to succeed in areas of life that mean the most to us, and to share these experiences with loving family and friends. I crave to be a part of an organization that embodies an individual’s calling towards community, personal growth, and obtaining set goals.
The design industry is extremely competitive, so I have invested significant time into pertinent clubs and organizations to expand my leadership qualities and connect with others. I have led 82 fraternity brothers as Vice President for over a year and a half, while being a vocal participant in student organizations like Adventure West Virginia and the Sustainable Fellows Program at WVU. Additionally, I launched Al Apparel Co., a self startup clothing company representing West Virginia culture and sports. I lead through positive action, and uphold an unapparelled respect for hardworking peers and coworkers. I recognize that the design community is built on teamwork and collective idea generation to tackle difficult problems in production efficiency and sustainability. I have continuously studied sustainable practices and solutions at West Virginia University and hope to collaborate with a team of like-minded individuals who feel strongly about the consequences of industrial manufacturing as I do.
