Maddy Wessling

New Media Major

Spring 2023

Graduating Spring 2024

Website: https://maddywessling.blogspot.com/

I began my journey at the University of Tampa in Fall 2019. My major starting out actually had nothing to do with art at all. I was set on being a Forensic Science major. However, during the rough COVID semesters, I quickly began to realize that my true passion lied elsewhere. After a few slip-ups and frustrating semesters, I decided to branch out and find a different major, but I had no idea where to turn. After a while, I stumbled upon New Media after meeting with Professor Dana Plays, who introduced me into the major. I took one look at the class requirements and realized that was where I wanted to be. The icing on the cake was meeting Professors Santiago Echeverry and Lori Jacques. Through them, I also have met other inspirational Professors in other major fields, like Stephanie Tripp, Lauren Malone, and many others. Through their passion, dedication, and support not only in my work, but other students’, I have grown not only as a professional artist, but also as a person.

With the guidance of my many encouraging professors, I have developed many strengths within the New Media field. I am proud to say that I have learned a great number of the current programs and languages used in my field. I am able to use many Adobe products including Illustrator, Premiere Pro, Dreamweaver, Photoshop, XD, and Audition. I have also created projects using coding languages and components like Python, Javascript, CSS, and HTML5. Some of my work has also been created using programs like MadMapper and Twine. With this wide range of products that I am able to use, I have many options when it comes to creating and exploring. I have a passion not only for crafting pieces but learning new programs as well. I am able to be flexible when it comes to designing and willing to use and understand new software. My passion and drive are embedded within every single project I do. I hope in the future to grow and learn even more so I can further my enthusiasm towards art.

Although I have grown tremendously, I am not without weaknesses. I find animation, both 2D and 3D to be especially difficult. Both classes, 3D Animation I and 2D Animation I were not my strong suits. In 3D, I was able to create some projects, but not without being very challenged. Cinema 4D has a very different learning style compared to other programs like Illustrator and Audition. Rigging the model was the biggest challenge and I tried my very best. With 2D animation, I enjoyed drawing each frame, as I often like to digitally create using Procreate. However, the hardest thing was making each frame move and each drawing come to life through animation. I find that it is much easier for me to draw a single frame and make a cohesive piece out of one image rather than many. But my drawing skills did improve after working with Dana Corrigan, who encouraged me to always try my best, even if 2D isn’t my strong suit. Through these classes, I learned that my work is not always going to be perfect and to be content with the process of designing rather than the final product.

Once I graduate, I have many options for my career. Although I cannot say exactly where I will be, I imagine myself working around the Tampa area for at least a few years after I leave the University. After college, I would love to be designing on a daily basis, maybe on a team as a video game designer or teaching children how to code. Who knows, maybe you will also see me working as a lifeguard part time, as I am getting my certification working with the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches this summer on an internship. I also would like to build a platform on Twitch, streaming content and continue learning Japanese. The ultimate end goals would be to either work in Japan or at Nintendo, creating art to be shared across the world. Regardless of where the wind takes me, I know that I have the strength and courage to authentically design because of my time here at the University of Tampa.