Students take an opportunity to serve as PRINT Ambassadors at PRINT18

October 22, 2018

Student Ambassadors at PRINT18. From left to right: Matthew Shultz, Maggi Whiston, Emily Algary, Kate Lawson, Alyx Farkas, and Weston Sanders

Every once in a while, an opportunity opens up to you that you don’t hesitate to take. For us, that opportunity was becoming student ambassadors for the Print 18 conference hosted in Chicago, Illinois. The six of us – Maggi Whiston, Emily Algary, Alyx Farkas, Weston Sanders, Kate Lawson, and Matthew Schultz – were honored to represent not only our Graphic Communications department and Clemson University but also the Association for PRINT Technologies. While we didn’t really know what to expect of our roles, we left that conference with new perspectives, new experiences, and new connections.

Our jobs as ambassadors were so rewarding. We loved meeting new people and hearing about their stories and their passion for print. Talking to such a diverse group helped us expand our communication skills and we met people from all over the world– China, France, Australia, and India to name a few. The temp workers who helped the conference run smoothly were so open and engaging and we really got a hands-on experience and understanding of all that goes into putting on such a large event.

The conference itself was an incredible opportunity to learn about the newest technology and network with industry professionals. The sheer size of Print 18 was astounding and learning how well-known and esteemed it was gave us a new perspective. Here, we got a real feel for what the print side of the graphic communications industry was all about. As students, we were able to explore so many new and interesting trends in print that we learned about in lectures. The blacklight ink booth and the VR headset experience were some of our favorite booths.

“I loved being able to stand in the middle of the trade show/exhibit hall and realize that over 300 exhibitors were present. These 300 exhibitors translate into over 300 future job opportunities”
-Alyx Farkas

Not only did we get to experience the Print 18 conference, but we were also given the opportunity to explore Chicago. Navy Pier, Willis Tower skybox, the Bean, the Art Institute of Chicago, and some ridiculously fabulous restaurants are just some of the highlights of our trip.

“This was my first time in Chicago and I enjoyed it so much! I loved that this trip allowed us to work at the conference, see the show floor, and gain experience but that we also had free time to sightsee and experience the city!”
-Kate Lawson

Overall, our experience as Print 18 ambassadors was incredible. We met new people, discovered new technologies, and explored an amazing city. You never know when an opportunity might come knocking. We just hope that you take the leap of faith and say yes.