Name: Alisa O’Neal but I really answer to Allie.
Year: Senior.
Hometown: San Jose, CA
Major: advertising, minor history
Celeb crush: Richard Madden
How is winter term treating you so far?
Winter term is going well. I’m taking the last of my classes and finishing up my thesis this term. I’m excited to be done in a couple weeks, but also sad that it’s almost over.
Any big or exciting things coming up for you?
Big news coming up is that I am almost done with my thesis! When completed, I will have designed a prototype for a visual and interactive education tool. Other big news is that I’m looking for job once I graduate, so if you know anyone hiring…
What are you involved with on campus?
On campus, I’m involved in organizations such as my sorority and the Emerald Media Group. I’ve worked for the Emerald for almost 3 years now, both on the editorial and on the business side.
Tell me more about your involvement in the Emerald Media Group:
I started as a designer for the editorial print edition of the Emerald my sophomore year. Then, this year transitioned over to the business side as the Creative Director. Currently the creative department works in all forms of media, both digital and print.
As the Creative Director who inspires you or where do you look for inspiration?
A lot of things inspire my work. The number one thing is inspiration from my peers. Going over a project with another designer or just another person brings a whole new perspective to it along with different ideas. I read a lot and book covers inspire me along with layouts in magazines and even textbooks! Music is also another huge inspiration as it helps me figure out the tone I want to design for and the emotions it should bring forward.
Tell me about your involvement in Greek Life:
One part of my college experience that I am thankful for is the sisterhood and experiences I have found with my involvement in Greek life. I have met so many amazing girls with completely different majors and interests that I couldn’t imagine my life without. I love knowing that I have a group of people who I can be myself with and not talk about school or work, but who are also there to support me when I need it.
What has been the best part of your experience at UO up until now?
The best part of my UofO experience up until now has been… Ahh there are just too many. One thing I have to say is that the friends I have made here: students, coworkers and professors all fill up my best memories these last few years. I have loved meeting new people and finding out what they love to do and then trying it to see all the super cool things people are doing in Eugene!
Any advice you’d like to share?
Advice I have. Hmm I would say go try the fun places in the Whitaker neighborhood and leave the typical campus places once in a while. I also would say to travel, may it be locally or internationally, explore as much as you can! It helps energize you after working for so long and reminds you that you are in a beautiful world filled with interesting people to meet! You also make connections that will help you network once you graduate. Overall, take advantage of your free time and find things that make you happy :)