Designing Her Future

Marisa Clark '15

Graphic Design Internship Puts Marisa Clark ’15 on Right Path

Angel Gable ’01 understands the trials of being a Moravian intern, which undoubtedly helped her own intern, Marisa Clark ’15, during the undergraduate’s 2014 internship.

In 1999, two years before her own graduation, Gable began interning at ArtsQuest, a Bethlehem community-based nonprofit organization that celebrates the arts. Gable’s role eventually transitioned into a full-time position, and “I never left,” she shrugs happily.

Now ArtsQuest’s graphic arts manager, Gable met Clark met at a Coffee and Connections Networking event hosted by Moravian University. Their discussion about the student’s career goals eventually led to an interview and portfolio review, and later an internship. Gable has had success with Moravian interns in the past, and there’s definitely a familiarity and comfort level accepting students from her alma mater.

“One of the most valuable assets of my experience was working in a fast-paced environment with strict deadlines.”

- Marisa Clark

“With Moravian interns, I know what their program is doing, and I know what ways I can help, which is a big advantage,” Gable says. Interns really earn their keep, managing a portion of the organization’s large project workload. “This is real work, and if they weren’t handling it, then I would be,” Gable adds.

Clark, who hails from Newton, New Jersey, handled a variety of projects, designing both print and online ads, posters, brochures and other publications. “One of the most valuable assets of my experience was working in a fast-paced environment with strict deadlines,” Clark says. “I feel that I have become a stronger designer in my classes because of this experience. I learned how to work in a professional environment, which has helped with not only my design level but also with communication and responsibility.”

Clark’s passion for graphic design dates back to high school and her internship only solidified her aspirations. She hopes to one day work with company overseeing promotional work for musicians or athletic teams, allowing her to work on a variety of projects.

“After working in the field, I am positive that I have made the right decision with my major,” Clark says. “The real-world experience at ArtsQuest is very helpful in planning my future and has helped me make connections in my field.”