Ciara Rodriguez
Name: Ciara Rodriguez
Graduation Year & Degree: 2019 BFA
Major: Graphic Design & Marketing
Current Occupation: : I am a Graphic Designer at Intermetro Industries in Wilkes-Barre, PA.
How long at current job: 5 years!
Instagram: @cicilhouse
What was your favorite part about studying art at Marywood?
My favorite part about studying at Marywood was the incredible sense of community and the guidance I received from my mentors. When I started in 2015, I was confident in my decision to major in marketing and thought of my artistic interests as more of a hobby. However, through the encouragement and support of my professors, I was able to pursue a double major in marketing and graphic design—and still graduate in four years. That decision completely transformed my future. I always knew I was passionate about art, but I wasn’t sure how to turn it into a career. Thanks to the well-rounded education and inspiring mentorship at Marywood, I was able to grow both strategically and creatively, which has truly shaped who I am as a professional today.
Marywood also hosted impactful networking events that connected students with leading businesses in the area. Through those experiences, I was able to start building the foundation of my professional network. It’s clear that Marywood truly cares about its students—not only in the classroom, but in helping them find meaningful, fulfilling careers after graduation.
How did your art education at Marywood help your career?
Art education at Marywood played a pivotal role in helping me bridge my strategic thinking with my creative passions. Growing up, I always loved working with my hands and creating, but pursuing a career in art never felt like a widely discussed or encouraged path. Marywood changed that for me. The art department offered access to an incredible variety of mediums, and the faculty encouraged exploration, allowing me to try everything and discover what truly resonated with me.
What stood out most was how current and relevant the curriculum was—particularly in digital design. I never felt behind or out of touch with industry expectations, which gave me the confidence to step into the professional world fully prepared. Even in moments that can feel daunting, like starting a new job, I’ve always felt equipped with the right tools, a strong creative foundation, and a deep understanding of how to make meaningful, impactful work.
Beyond technical skills, Marywood also instilled the importance of community—being kind, showing up, and supporting one another, which continues to influence how I show up professionally today.
Being a graphic designer allows me to combine creativity with purpose, and there’s something really special about turning imagination into something others can see, connect with, and enjoy. It’s a privilege to be part of a field where art meets communication and impact.
What attracted you to this career path?
What initially attracted me to this career path was a genuine love for creating—something as simple as designing my own greeting cards and invitations by hand sparked that passion early on. I’ve always found myself drawn to visual details—whether it’s concert posters, flyers, or merchandise, I can’t help but stop to admire and analyze the design. That natural curiosity eventually evolved into a deeper appreciation for the power of graphic design.
What excites me most is the ability to bring an original idea to life and share it on a wide scale. The idea that something I created can resonate with someone across the country—or even across the world—is incredibly rewarding. Being a graphic designer allows me to combine creativity with purpose, and there’s something really special about turning imagination into something others can see, connect with, and enjoy. It’s a privilege to be part of a field where art meets communication and impact.
Did your career path match your vision of a career path? What’s different?
To be honest, when I first set out on this career path, I had only a vague idea of what a graphic design role could truly look like. I never imagined the range of experiences it would lead to. My career in graphic design has taken me across the country, allowed me to collaborate with printers, and set up my designs at national trade shows. I’ve had the opportunity to connect with photographers and now have the privilege of creative directing photoshoots at Metro.
Outside of my career at Metro, I’ve been channeling my creativity into a personal passion project—illustrating my first children’s book. Working in a corporate creative role, I’ve learned how important it is to set a personal goal and give it a deadline. Balancing work and creativity isn’t always easy, but having a clear mission keeps me focused, inspired, and continually growing my skills beyond the 9-to-5.
What is your favorite thing about your current job?
One of my favorite aspects of my current role is the collaborative environment and the team I get to work with every day. Being surrounded by other creative professionals fosters an open exchange of ideas, where everyone’s input is valued. There’s a real sense of teamwork and purpose as we move from concept to execution, and I find that process both energizing and rewarding.
I also appreciate the unique challenge of working for a company that serves three distinct market segments. It pushes me to think strategically—taking the same product and finding tailored ways to communicate its value to different audiences. That blend of creativity and problem-solving is something I truly enjoy, and it keeps my work both dynamic and intellectually engaging.
Are you currently working on any interesting side projects?
My current side project is a children’s book that I wrote and am now illustrating. The story explores the concept of the bystander effect, encouraging children to understand that they don’t have to wait for others to take action—they have the power to make things happen on their own. It’s a message about self-motivation and confidence, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to bring it to life both through writing and illustration.
While that’s my main focus, like many artists, my creativity often takes me in different directions. In between, I work on smaller comic-style pieces featuring the adventures of a bunny named Bean. These self-initiated projects are close to my heart, as my ultimate goal is to become a published children’s author and illustrator.
What are some of the biggest rewards in your career?
One of the most rewarding moments in my career is when someone compliments something I’ve designed—like a shirt I’m wearing—without realizing I created it. Those organic, unprompted reactions from the public are incredibly meaningful. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder that the work I do resonates with others, and moments like that always leave me smiling and motivated to create even more.
While I take personal pride in my work, hearing genuine feedback from people who have no idea I’m the designer brings a whole new level of fulfillment. Additionally, I truly enjoy collaborating with others—listening to their ideas and being the one to bring their vision to life. Helping people see their concepts fully realized through design is one of the most satisfying parts of what I do.
What’s something that would surprise people about your day-to-day?
Honestly, I wish I could say I solve crimes on the side or I am a practicing magician… but nope! What might surprise people is how chaotic my attention span is. One day I’m deep into a project, the next I’ve convinced myself I need to reorganize my entire workspace or learn how to tattoo. No two days are ever the same… mostly because I keep forgetting what I was doing in the first place.
What inspires you?
Inspiration comes to me often in the most unexpected ways. I find that making time to be outdoors while listening to music is one of the most powerful ways to spark creativity. Sometimes, a single word or lyric can resonate deeply and lead to an entirely new artistic concept. That connection between sound and imagination is something I truly value.
I’m also inspired by everyday conversations with friends and family. Hearing their stories or experiences often gives me fresh perspective and, more often than not, becomes the starting point for my next piece.
Any advice for current art students at Marywood?
My advice to current Marywood students is to give your full effort to everything you do. Sometimes the work may feel like just another task, but remember—you’re there to grow, to refine your talent, and to push your creative boundaries. Stay present and aware, because every decision you make can shape your next opportunity. If something sparks your interest, take the class. Explore it. Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your perspective—you never know who might need to hear it. As you enter your field, you’ll quickly learn that confidence is one of your most powerful tools. It not only opens doors but also leaves a lasting impression on the people you work with.
To learn more about Ciara and her work, visit her personal website at www.cicil-house.com and follow her on Instagram at @cicilhouse
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN STUDYING Graphic Design?
Graphic Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts: Design
Our graphic design program at Marywood will introduce you to a variety of design disciplines. Conceptual development, technical skills and professionalism are emphasized. Students have the opportunity to work independently, with partners, in small groups, with professionals in the field and real clients. Regular class critiques and portfolio reviews are stressed throughout the program.
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Low Residency MFAs in Graphic Design and Illustration are offered through our “Get Your Masters with the Masters” MFA for Working Professionals and Educators in Graphic Design & Illustration. This 60-credit Master of Fine Arts degree is specifically designed for working art directors, designers, illustrators, new media artists and art educators who have to budget their time and resources carefully, while continuing with their full-time occupations. While production and technical skills are stressed, the thrust of our program is on creativity and concept.
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