Graduate Spotlight: Savannah Duringer

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A woman is wearing an orange dress and graduation cap

Savannah Duringer, a 2022 graduate of Mercer University‘s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design.

What are your plans after graduation?

Mercer has provided me with so many amazing opportunities to begin my career. After graduation, I will be moving to Alpharetta, where I have accepted a position with Fiserv in their global brand and communications department.

Who was your favorite professor and why?

My favorite professor is Tennille Shuster. I have taken so many design classes with her, and she has always been there for me. Whether I needed inspiration, advice, encouragement or a critique, she knew exactly what to give and when to give it. She has been a major part of shaping me into not only a strong and capable designer but also the person I am today. I would not be where I am without her, and I am so thankful!

What is one of your favorite Mercer memories?

One of my favorite Mercer memories was being an Opportunity Scholars ambassador during my second year. Opportunity Scholars is a fun program that helps first-year students succeed. I loved every part of being an ambassador. I was able to connect with so many students, go on fun trips, lead workshops and create lifelong friendships.

What was your favorite class and why?

My favorite class that I took at Mercer was illustration with Professor Shuster. I took illustration during my junior year and fell in love with it immediately. I have always had a love for drawing, and illustration was the perfect combination of art and design. One of my favorite projects in that class was being able to create a children’s book cover and spread. That project eventually inspired me to write and illustrate an entire children’s book for my senior art exhibition.

How do you plan on changing the world?

During my time at Mercer, I have realized that I can make a difference in the world through my graphic design skills. I created a children’s book for my senior exhibition that focused on bringing more native representation to the children’s book industry. This project is really important to me and has the potential to make a big impact on the world. I would like to continue making fun and educational books to create more variety in children’s literature.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

Be open! There are so many opportunities that Mercer provides for its students. Whether you are looking to join a club, go to an event or take a class that you are unsure of, go for it! College is a wonderful opportunity to try and learn new things. Take advantage of these experiences, and you won’t regret it!

How did Mercer prepare you for your future?

The variety of classes that I was able to take at Mercer really helped me grow into a strong designer and young professional. Not only was I able to take amazing design classes, but I was able to take business classes as well. This helped me understand the business world and prepared me to work as an in-house designer in relation to departments beyond creative services. I also had the opportunity to take Great Books, which allowed me to think critically about myself and the world around me. Every class that I have taken has shaped me, and I feel comfortable and capable to begin my career.

What makes Mercer special to you?

Mercer is special to me because it has become my second home, and the community has become my family. I will forever be grateful for all of the experiences I’ve had here, but the one thing that I am most thankful for is the friendships I’ve made. The encouragement, laughter and memories that I have shared with my Mercer family are memories that will last a lifetime.

 

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