From Inspiration to Innovation: Melissa Sprole's Graphic Design Journey

Melissa Sprole is not just a loving dog mom to her adorable toy poodle Daisy; she's also a skilled graphic designer and content creation expert. With a wealth of knowledge in her field, she's always pushing her limits and seeking new challenges. Dive into Melissa's graphic design journey, her path to Brandmint, and the valuable advice she has for aspiring designers.

How Inspiration Led to a Career Path

Growing up, I found inspiration in animated TV shows and movies, igniting my passion for creativity and drawing. Initially drawn to a career in cartoon animation or storyboard artistry, I eventually opted for graphic design, finding it a better fit for me.

Following my graduation with a bachelor’s degree in New Media Design from the State University of New York at Cortland, I joined Communiqué Design & Marketing, later acquired by Brandmint. My familiarity with the team grew from collaborating on a branding project for Coltivare during my time at Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3). Over time, I transitioned from part-time to full-time employment, and with Brandmint's acquisition of Communique in 2022, I seamlessly became a part of the Brandmint Team.

Responsibilities at Brandmint

As the Senior Content Producer, I oversee the creation of digital and print content, offer creative direction, develop motion graphic video content, and handle backend edits to website content. One project I'm especially proud of is the video ad we crafted for ChargeSmart EV.

Getting the Job Done

I primarily use Adobe Illustrator for my design work. However, for text-heavy projects like booklets and presentations, I switch to Adobe InDesign. When it comes to motion graphics and video projects, I employ a mix of Adobe Animate and Adobe Premiere Pro.

In graphic design, staying abreast of the latest industry and consumer trends is key. That's why I subscribe to several graphic design-related newsletters to ensure I'm always up to date.

Looking Back & Looking Forward

My career journey thus far has been fascinating and I'm excited about the future. If I could offer advice to my younger self, it would be to prioritize internships and networking. Gathering professional experience across various settings and building connections can set you apart when you start seeking employment opportunities.