Kristin Cicala is graduating debt free thanks to a variety of academic and private scholarships, as well as working three jobs. Upon receiving her bachelor’s in fine arts with a major in graphic design and a minor in interactivity and animation through the College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts, the 21-year-old Dearborn Heights resident plans to work full time in the graphic design industry while building her freelance career. Cicala’s also pursuing a certificate in entrepreneurship and innovation through the Mike Ilitch School of Business.

Cicala’s interest in art was sparked as a student at Divine Child High School. “I always loved to draw and design things. I took art classes and realized that graphic arts was my passion,” Cicala said.

Her dedication to art continued when she enrolled at Wayne State and began logging a daily commute from home. “As a commuter student, I was worried that I wouldn’t make friends or feel like I had a true college experience since I was living at home. Upon coming to the university, I met so many great people in my program that I will be friends with beyond my college years.”

Cicala said balancing three jobs, pursuing her academic program and maintaining a social life proved to be a challenge, but one that paid off in more ways than one. “I’m graduating debt free after three and a half years and, in 2019, I became president of the AIGA Wayne State, our student organization for graphic designers. I have been fortunate to gain valuable leadership skills while also expanding my network and learning from other people in the industry.”

Cicala admitted that navigating her final year at Wayne State during the pandemic has been difficult, but she said she’s eager to enter the work force. “The knowledge and skills that I have gained during my years at Wayne State University have been very beneficial. I want to stay in Detroit after graduation – it’s a great place for design.”

On graduation day, Cicala plans to celebrate at home with family. “Since the restaurants will be closed for dining in, I’ll order my favorite takeout.”