Marcy Bishop-Lilley is a Career Specialist in the College of Visual Art and Design and was recently recognized by UNT for five years of service. In addition to providing resources, she is driven to coach students on how to articulate their skills, abilities, and identity. Read on to hear her take on mentors and her top tools for internship search.
Congrats on your five-year anniversary at UNT! Are there any significant moments that stand out from your time as a Career Specialist?
Thank you! A few actually–my time in the Career Center has been extraordinary for learning new skills, meeting new people, partnering with local employers, visual artists, designers, alumni, faculty, and UNT staff. Creating content, workshops, and events to facilitate student career readiness and seeing the results manifesting into internships, jobs, and opportunities are moments I’ll never forget and what keep pushing me to move forward.
We know from your interview with Canvas Rebel that you were David Hick’s studio assistant. Tell us more about that experience. How did you end up in that position and what was it like?
David Hicks was my professor and mentor from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. It was 2011-2012 so back then positions like that were word of mouth. Professor Hicks said he needed a studio assistant and I eagerly volunteered, (it was paid). The role was great! I got to assist with the production of large-scale ceramic pieces, exotic glazes, firing methods, and shipping of the works to destinations all around the globe.
How have your mentors helped you in the past?
My mentors have provided valuable guidance, feedback, and encouragement throughout my artistic journey, helping me develop my skills, refine my artistic vision, and navigate challenges in the art world.
In terms of what students need in their careers, what has shifted over the past few years?
In recent years, students’ needs in their art careers have shifted towards a greater emphasis on digital skills, interdisciplinary knowledge, and entrepreneurial abilities. Additionally, there’s a growing demand for adaptability, cultural awareness, and sustainability in art practices.
What are your top 5 tools for job and internship search?
- Create a Google Sheet to stay organized and record where you’ve applied, interviewed, etc.
- Make a list of the top 10 internships to apply to.
- Schedule an appointment with your Career Coach to review your resume and goals.
- Talk with your faculty and get their feedback on where to look and what national organizations to plug into.
- Create a LinkedIn profile–Employers will be searching for you on LinkedIn or your social media accounts.
What is the most common mistake you see when reviewing resumes?
Often resumes are either too cluttered with irrelevant information or too vague, making it difficult to quickly understand a candidate’s qualifications and experience. Read over your resume: take out what is not necessary and reword information to be more specific.
How does one start to form an idea of what their career path looks like?
Start by defining your artistic goals and values. Whether that be monetary, fame, happiness, or comfort, you still need to question what is important to you as an artist or designer.
Research different career paths in the arts, seek mentorship, go to career readiness workshops, and network with professionals. Experiment with various mediums and styles to find your niche. Regularly evaluate and adjust your goals as you gain experience and insight.
Learn more about Marcy or find out how to meet your career coach.
