From Struggles to Success: Local TC3 Alumna Julianna Truesdale's Inspiring Journey

Julianna Truesdale, a 2009 graduate of Tompkins Cortland Community College’s (TC3) graphic design program, has a compelling story of resilience. Truesdale was sex trafficked from 1989 to 1993 and struggled with meth addiction for 16 years, leading to homelessness in Los Angeles. In 2005, she was arrested, leading to a felony on her record and the start of her recovery.

Post-release, Truesdale moved away from Los Angeles to avoid negative influences. She joined TC3's graphic design program on her sister's recommendation. Despite initial self-doubt, Truesdale worked hard at TC3, learning from her classes and professors. The small class sizes and the professors' dedication to education helped her build strong relationships, aiding her transformation.

Truesdale's time at TC3 was a period of significant personal growth, helping her regain self-esteem. She found the staff and professors supportive, interested in her education, and appreciative of her achievements. This supportive environment, her personal experiences, and the quality of education she received were key to her success.

Truesdale's academic journey continued beyond TC3. She graduated with a 4.0 GPA and was accepted into the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Despite the challenges of her felony record, Truesdale's portfolio was impressive at the RIT portfolio review, thanks to guidance from TC3 arts professors. At RIT, she won several merit scholarships and awards and built strong relationships with the President and Trustees.

After graduating from RIT with a 4.0 GPA, Truesdale received a scholarship to a Masters of Design Workshop in Provence, France, where she studied with well-known designers. She then worked in the industry for five years to further develop her skills. Truesdale's story highlights the importance of education and supportive learning environments. Her journey from Los Angeles to TC3 and RIT, and finally to Provence, France, is a testament to resilience, determination, and the pursuit of improvement.

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