Local Triumph: Solano College Students Shine in Oakland Design Challenge

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Three students from Solano College's advanced graphic design class have successfully participated in the Bridgegood.org Inspire Oakland design challenge. Guided by their instructor, Rachel Smith, they created billboard designs that represent Oakland's diversity and culture. The challenge was presented by Elisa Feng, Bridgegood's program manager, during her visit to the college's new digital media art lab in Vallejo.

The students started by making conceptual moodboards and thumbnails, then progressed to more detailed design drafts. These drafts were thoroughly reviewed in class critiques before submission to the competition. This structured process helped the students improve their ideas and presentation skills, which are essential for their graphic design careers.

Lilliana Mendez, one of the students, placed in the Top 6 with her innovative design. Her classmates, Herman Billingsley and Nova Ojeda, also performed well, securing positions in the Top 20. Their success demonstrates their skills and the quality of education and mentorship at Solano College.

The finalists, including the three Solano College students, presented their work at Bridgegood’s offices on May 7. This event provided them with the opportunity to receive feedback from industry professionals and gain exposure. Such experiences are crucial for aspiring designers to understand professional expectations.