SCAD Homecoming: A Designer’s Return to the South’s Iconic Creative Haven
Welcome to Savannah, Georgia — a city of artistic inspiration and creative energy.
In February, I was able to return to Savannah after my graduation from SCAD in 2022. While there, I was not only able to explore how the city has evolved since my time as a student, but also give presentations, mentor students, and rekindle my connection with the vibrant SCAD community.
Returning to Savannah felt like a homecoming in a way; stepping into the SCAD Industrial Design building brought back the nostalgic feelings of what it was like to be a student. The campus buzzed with creative energy, and the students I had the pleasure of meeting reflected the diverse talents and passions that make SCAD sparkle. Engaging with these aspiring artists, designers, and storytellers was a privilege, as I witnessed their dedication and saw glimpses of my own journey reflected in them - a journey I'm excited to share with any up-and-coming industrial designers looking for a little insight into what's possible.
The Not-So-Linear Path
My experience at SCAD started a year later than most — I began as a transfer student after completing a year of engineering at the Colorado School of Mines, when I realized my desire to do something more creative. When I moved to Savannah, I was nervous and unsure of my creative skills (as I had spent so much time in STEM), but I was excited and hopeful for what I would soon accomplish as a student in Industrial Design.
My time in Savannah tremendously contributed to my confidence and success as a professional, and the experiences I gained while at SCAD significantly shaped the person I am today. During my time at SCAD, I took every opportunity that I could to get involved, both in the community and in once-in-a-lifetime projects. I served as the president of SCAD IDSA, collaborated on a functional hovercraft, revolutionized work from home office furniture in partnership with Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, redesigned the cockpit of luxury business jets alongside Gulfstream Aerospace, and built a customizable chair to ease anxiety — just to name a few. Through these unique experiences, I watched myself evolve from a young student that was confused about my purpose and career path, to a design professional who is confident leading projects, pitching concepts to CEOs, and traveling to New York City to receive design awards.
From Student to Expert
In February, I was asked by SCAD to return to Savannah to give a series of presentations to students about my journey in addition to life in industry as an Industrial Designer. As I had been out of school for nearly two years, it was unfamiliar being back in Savannah, no longer as a student, but as an alumna. However, having both student and industry experience under my belt provided me with the opportunity to work individually with current SCAD students studying Industrial Design, offering guidance, support, and encouragement to those who sought it out. Witnessing the innovative projects and unique visions that students brought to life was a reminder of the limitless potential that resides within each creative soul, especially these young designers of the future.
My Advice? Be Fearless, Be Persistent
Although it was a different experience being back as an alumna, I left Savannah feeling grateful for my experience as a student at SCAD, as the trip gave me the opportunity to reflect on my journey and gain some closure that I didn’t know I needed. It was a humbling experience to share my own story with these students and, hopefully, inspire the next generation of artists to pursue their dreams fearlessly and with persistence.
Natalie Schaake
industrial designer
