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Left Coast Interview Questions
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Mary Gilliana
Graphic Design
What's the worst advice you've ever been given?
When I was 21 years old and a junior at the University of Oregon, I decided to follow in my father's footsteps and study commercial art (this was back in the dark ages before they called it "graphic design"). When I consulted my college counselor for advice on what classes to take, etc., his only comment was something like "don't pursue a career in art, there's not future in it." Still being young, impressionable and not gutsy enough to question authority, I took his advice and graduated a year later with a BS (and I do mean "BS") in Psychology. As luck would have it, my first job out of college was administrative assistant in the Public Relations office of Lewis & Clark College. It eventually became clear that I was much better suited for graphic design than typing and filing, and two years later I was promoted to Assistant Art Director. From there I moved on and up and have been fortunate enough to land here at Left Coast Productions.
What's the best advice you've ever been given?
1. Most things you worry never happen anyway.
2. Never leave a good party.
3. Buy the best that you can afford.
What’s your goal when creating a design?
I like to challenge myself to design “outside the box”. I work on projects based on my client’s ideas and input, but also try to put my own spin on it. I love it when a client says “Wow, I never would have thought of that”. And, when they really like my design, that’s icing on the cake! Of course, the #1 goal is a happy customer.
What is one interesting thing about you that no one at Left Coast knows?
I don’t know how interesting it is, but I can sing happy birthday backwards. That’s yppah yadhtrib ot uoy… well, you get the idea. Call me on your birthday and I’ll sing for you!
What is one article of clothing that EVERYONE should own?
In my opinion, power suits are overrated; nothing commands respect like a feather boa. Plus, nothing makes you look or feel more elegant and it’s hard to take yourself too seriously while wearing one.
