Kimberly Acer, Advertising & Digital Design BFA class of 2015, is a New York based visual art director /designer looking to make the move from The Big Apple to the City of Roses. She has worked on projects for exciting brands such as Chapstick, Dimetapp, and Hemptails. Currently, she is an Art Director at A + E Networks.
Click here to visit Kimberly’s portfolio website.
Why you enjoy doing what you are doing now?
One of the best things about being an art director / designer is getting to see the work that I created being put out into the world. All the hard work and sleepless nights are worth it when you get to take a step back and say, “I made that.”
What you have learned at FIT that have helped you get your career started?
FIT’s A&DD BFA program taught me a lot of things that have helped me start my career. Of course, the technical skills, especially knowing After Effects and Premiere Pro have been a HUGE help in landing all of my roles. But more importantly, the A&DD program taught me how to present my work and to always give a reason of why I did something in a certain way. This is especially important when working directly with clients who may have a harder time understanding the creative process. I have found if you explain your reasons well, they tend to become more understanding and appreciative of you and your work.
What’s the one advise that you would give to students pursuing a career in advertising and digital design?
The advice I would give to students on this career path is to always be true to yourself and find a place that values YOU. I think a lot of new graduates get caught up in the superficiality of big-named companies, all wanting to work for top agencies or trendy startups, which is fine, but they’re not for everyone. There are a lot of great companies out there — big and small — that are doing amazing work with amazing people. Don’t be afraid to take a chance on a company you may not be too familiar with.