When students step into Mr. Joshua Metz’s Graphic Arts classroom, they aren’t just completing assignments, they’re learning to combine creativity with technology in ways that prepare them for the real world. Whether it’s designing logos, editing videos, or animating YouTube intros, Graphic Arts is more than an art class: It’s a launchpad for future careers.
For Senior Traivon Broome, the class is about building skills for his future career in cybersecurity.
“I just wanted to know how to arrange my documents so they could look nice,” Broome said.
He explained that the focus on layout, colors, and design have made him more confident in creating professional-looking work. Broome said that learning Photoshop and earning a Photoshop certificate have been the most valuable part of his experience so far.
“It’s a hard class, but it’ll be worth it if that’s what you want to do,” he added.
Alex Farina sees Graphic Arts as a way to express his creativity while gaining technical expertise.
“Graphic Arts stands out compared to other art classes because you don’t need to be a traditional illustrator. You just need to know how to arrange things in a way that looks good,” Farina said.
From Photoshop to After Effects, Farina has developed skills in a wide range of Adobe programs. But he gives out a warning to not underestimate the challenge.
“You are going to be toasted, roasted and thoroughly cooked,” he said. “If you don’t dedicate yourself, you won’t survive.”
For Divine Atkins, the class has been the perfect outlet for a lifelong passion.
“I’ve always been told I’m an artistic person,” she said, “When I looked at the Graphic Arts pathway, I thought it would fit me, and it has.”
Her proudest project is a cookbook she designed, inspired by fictional characters and their favorite foods. But more important than any assignment, she believes, has been learning to take feedback.
“At first, I took critiques personally, but now I see them as a way to improve,” Atkins said.
Behind the scenes, Mr Metz structures his lessons around preparing students for real-world opportunities. His program introduces careers ranging from graphic designer and animator to video game designer and UX/UI specialist, a person who designs digital products, focusing on both the user experience and interface.
“Interactive media builds on digital design by adding motion or animation,” Metz said. “Students work with film, photography and design to complete projects.”
Students recently created YouTube channel intros to help them build their own personal brands. Metz also keeps students motivated by connecting lessons to real business possibilities such as creating merchandise for recurring revenue.
While the projects are creative and fun, students agree that Graphic Arts isn’t an “easy A.” It challenges them to balance artistic vision with technical skill, patience and discipline.
“The hands-on learning, that comes with the class,” Farina said. “A lot of classes are more theoretical while with graphical arts everything you do is a project, everything you do is art. With every assignment you do, you get better at your craft.”
