Our SC brand designer: Arlene Mitsui
How did you feel working on the Success Cohorts website?
When I started ideating on the brand for Success Cohorts, I began by asking myself “what does success look like?” Words like bold, empowered, confident, networking, community were words that stuck out to me. Sketches of people and hands intertwined were among the first rounds. I then explored typography styles with the S and C. The final logomark consists of a stylized “S” which is a breakdown of two circles and a connector to convey a connection between two people (mentor and mentee) and the “C” that surrounds the “S” represents a supporting group, community or “cohort”. Together, it creates a strong unique “SC” logomark, short for Success Cohorts. The overall visual tone through the use of colors and photography expresses bright smiles, positive energy, approachability, inclusivity and professionalism.
What is your graphic design origin story?
From the moment I learned how to hold a pencil I loved to draw. When I learned how to write, I loved practicing writing the alphabet especially in cursive. The repetition and practice of all styles of handwriting and doodling was calming to me. I was the shy and quiet type. But art was like my voice. I continued to study art in junior high and high school, thinking architecture was where I was headed (because my dad is an architect) but technical drawing was not my thing, maybe it was too literal? I liked freeform, abstract, grids/patterns and typography. When I started designing posters for my best friend's campaign for student council, that was when my mind made the switch from architecture to graphic design.
My focus and determination continued throughout my college years, I began a collection of design magazines such as HOW, Print, and Communications Arts. I would read up on local design studios and follow their work. As a first-generation Filipino American, it inspired me to see Asian-American and BIPOC designers succeeding in the field, some even owned their own design companies. A few months after graduation, I got the opportunity to work for a small startup design firm in Seattle. I can recall all sorts of challenges when I first started out. When you work for a small startup, you’re learning how to juggle operational tasks on top of your projects, as well as managing vendors and clients.
When I needed guidance, I would occasionally reach out to my high school design teacher and /or college design professors. My boss also became someone I grew to trust and respect. I’m not sure how I could have navigated those first years if it wasn’t those individuals who took the time to listen, challenge and mentor me through that time in my life. This is why I think Success Cohorts is so awesome and so important because mentorship and building meaningful relationships played a significant part of my career success. I could not have gone this far without the support of my mentors and peers.
What advice would you give other early career first-generation college graduates?
Network with people your industry or like-experience background as soon as you are able to. If you’re someone going into design like me, I started my network by becoming a member of AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts) when I was a college student. I attended as many events as I could. The more events I attended faces became more familiar and soon it became easier to start conversations with people which eventually led to meaningful relationships and current clients!
P.S. It has such been a privilege to work with the folks at Success Cohorts this past year. This group is so caring, gritty and just amazing human beings. If you graduated this year, perhaps you should consider signing up for a cohort!
