Several students from Central Arizona College’s Graphic Design program had the amazing opportunity to take a trip to Las Vegas, Nevada for the annual Photoshop World Conference and Expo. Professor of Digital Media and Coordinator of the Graphic Design program, Sue Tatterson hand-picked five students to participate in the conference to give them an opportunity to expand their horizons and expertise in the ever-expanding world of graphic design and photography.

On Monday July 18th, the students, along with Professor Tatterson, set out to Las Vegas for a week-long stay at the Mandalay Bay Resort. The tight-knit group ended up exploring the stunning sights of the “Strip” on the first night before attending the conference itself. From then on, the students embraced a full 3 days of back-to-back seminars, which ran from 8 am until 8 pm and led by some of the very best in the photography and design industry. From prolific Photoshop experts like Corey Barker, to photography legends such as Bryan O’Neil and David Black, the students had the opportunity of a lifetime to receive professional advice and learn skills from these experts in their fields. In addition, the students had an opportunity to market themselves during the conference and made some memorable connections.

“It was fun and educational, but exhausting. Despite the tiredness, I enjoyed it and learned many skills that will be useful after I graduate,” said Vanessa Lozano, one of the students who attended

Marielle Ariete was another student who partook in this adventure and said, “Going to Photoshop World was an amazing experience. I got to see the graphic design legends work their magic in-person and I learned many, many things. I’d love to go again.”

Overall, the students agreed it was a trip worth taking and it was an experience they would not easily forget. After coming home from an exciting, but exhausting trip, everyone agreed that there truly is no place like home.

Central Arizona College offers an Associate’s of Applied Science Degree and Certificate in Graphic Design. This creative and technical program guarantees you will learn all the necessary knowledge of an entry-level graphic designer and should be ready to move on to a four year accredited university to receive a Bachelor’s.

For more information about the Graphic Design Program contact Susan Tatterson, Professor of Digital Media.}