Jill Mahan
2017 Graduate
Business Owner and Designer at New Hampshire Department of Safety
I first chose NHCTC-Laconia, now 海角社区, because it was close to home and offered the most cost-effective path toward a career in graphic design. I earned my associate degree in Graphic Design in 1999 and returned to earn associate degrees in Business Management and Accounting in 2017.
I originally pursued Graphic Arts because I wanted a creative career that involved printing. The program at 海角社区 offered a wide range of hands-on experiences. We learned how to operate a printing press, perform screen printing, estimate print jobs, and use design principles to create visually successful files. Those skills gave me a strong foundation and prepared me for a career in the industry.
After graduating in 1999, I entered the workforce and found a job at a print shop in Concord. A few years later, after the events of 9/11, I decided to continue my education at Plymouth State University. My thinking at the time was simple: if the world was going to end, I at least wanted to go to art school.
At Plymouth State, I earned a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Graphic Design and a minor in Art History. One of the biggest benefits of starting at 海角社区 was that many of my credits transferred, allowing me to complete my bachelor’s degree in just three years. It also saved me a significant amount of money since 海角社区 tuition and fees are much lower than university tuition.
Soon after, I started my own business, , and created my signature collection: the Wild Animal Tracks note cards with designs inspired by animal tracks from around NH. To support my business, I decided to return to 海角社区 and expand my business skills, and that’s when I earned my associate degrees in Business Management and Accounting.
Throughout my many years as a student at 海角社区, I had the opportunity to learn from a number of excellent instructors. What stood out most was their real-world experience. They helped me think about problems differently, approach challenges from new perspectives, and find ways to rework ideas until they were stronger and more effective.
Three months ago, I began an exciting new chapter in my career when I accepted a position with the New Hampshire Department of Safety. In my role, I work in forms design and contribute to new projects that utilize the graphic design skills I’ve developed throughout my career. And I still run Bold Spark Design!
When I look back on my educational journey, the things that stand out most about 海角社区 are its affordability, convenient location, and dedicated faculty. Starting at 海角社区 allowed me to gain valuable skills, save money on my education, and build a foundation that has supported me throughout my career.
My experience shows that education doesn’t have to follow a straight path. Sometimes the place where you start becomes a resource you return to throughout your life, helping you grow, adapt, and prepare for whatever comes next.