Jess Thierfelder
Biography
Jess Thierfelder began her first year at Carthage in 2015 with majors in psychology and studio art. Three semesters later, Jess decided psychology wasn’t the right path for her and took up graphic design, something completely new to her.
She had some really amazing opportunities during her time at Carthage, working under Professor Ryan Miller as the art gallery assistant and being a student intern in the Office of Communications.
After graduating from Carthage in 2020 at the height of the pandemic, Jess decided to take a small break from graphic design so that she could assist a family full-time with online schooling. She taught and cared for three boys (twin kindergarteners and a second grader) for a full semester, and they continue to be a wonderful part of her life. After they returned to school in person, Jess picked up a part-time job as a cashier at Stein’s Garden and Home so that she could have the daily routine of having a job while polishing her design portfolio and website. Three months into this job, she was promoted to assistant manager and began working full-time, learning all there is to know about plants and customer service.
As she finished her portfolio and resume, she found an open graphic design position at Carthage and knew this was an opportunity she could never pass up.
She is now living her dream of being a creative designer and helping future students make that final step to call Carthage home. Jess truly hopes prospective students will find the amazing opportunities and life-long connections that she was blessed with during her time at Carthage.
Education
- B.A. — Studio Art and Graphic Design, Carthage College, 2020
Main responsibilities at Carthage
“As the graphic designer at Carthage, my responsibilities range from admissions materials updates to creating stickers, banners, and advertisements to ensure all current and prospective students are represented and valued. My main focus in this role is creating fresh, eye-catching pieces that are clear and concise while staying true to the Carthage brand.”
Favorite thing about working at Carthage
“My favorite thing about Carthage is the community around me. The relationships I formed as a student have carried on to this day, and I’m so honored and excited to feel like a big part of Carthage again.”
Other interests?
“In my free time, I enjoy going to electronic music shows, camping, hiking, hula-hooping, playing video games, and spending time with friends in Kenosha.”