From Classroom to Creative Director

May 5, 2025

Lessons I Shared with the Next Generation of Designers

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Last week, I had the privilege of speaking to a group of graphic design students—young creatives on the edge of launching their careers. It was surreal to be back in a college setting, standing in front of students exactly where I once stood. I graduated from North Idaho College in my early 30s as a nontraditional student, and now, more than a decade later, I own Bahlr Media, an agency built from the ground up right here in Coeur d’Alene.

I didn’t come to lecture or show off. I came to give them the kind of perspective I wish I’d heard back then—raw, honest, and rooted in real-world experience.

Define What You Want

The first thing I shared with them: define what success means to you. Not your parents. Not your instructors. Not Instagram. You. Do you want to be a full-time creative, or do you want to build a business? Do you want to pursue passion projects, or do you want to earn a solid income? Both are valid. But knowing which direction you’re aiming for is the only way to make intentional decisions.

Your Why Will Carry You

I told them that creative burnout is real—especially when you’re doing work that doesn’t align with your values. That’s why purpose matters. For me, my purpose is my family. They are the reason Bahlr exists. Without that purpose, I’d have burned out years ago. Work doesn’t always make you happy. But knowing why you work can.

Relationships Matter More Than You Think

Some of the people I sat next to in college are now my collaborators and creative partners. I stressed to the students: the classmates you share a table with today could be the people who open doors for you tomorrow. Respect and encourage each other. You’re building more than just a portfolio—you’re building a network.

Communication Is the Core

At the heart of every logo, website, or video is one job: communication. Our work is about making people feel and understand something—without us needing to explain it. And the real challenge? Saying more with less. The more you can eliminate without losing meaning, the more powerful your work becomes.

Be Honest About What the Market Values

We all want to follow our dreams, but not every dream pays the bills. I encouraged them to ask hard questions: Is this a marketable skill? Is this a hobby or a career? If you can find something you love that also makes money—run with it. If not, be strategic. There’s no shame in working smart so you can live well.

Final Thoughts

I wrapped up my talk with this: know what you want, surround yourself with good people, keep purpose at the center of it all, and don’t be afraid to fail hard once in a while. That’s where growth happens.

To the next generation of creatives—this industry is yours now. Make it better. Make it honest. And most importantly, make it meaningful.