Wahl-Coates Elementary School Of The Arts | Jared Roach & DRMR Creative at College and Career Day

Last week, I had the honor of participating in College and Career Day at Wahl-Coates Elementary School of the Arts here in Greenville, North Carolina. There’s nothing like stepping into a room full of students who are full of with curiosity and possiblity.

I spend most of my days helping entrepreneurs refine their brands, build websites, and tell their stories visually. But spending a morning with young students reminded that creativity starts early, and when nurtured, it can shape entire futures.

Bringing Graphic Design to Life for Kids

My goal for the day was simple—show students that creativity isn’t just something you do for fun. It can become a career. So I brought examples of real projects like Book covers, Custom T-shirts and Logos from small businesses we’ve helped build

Their eyes lit up and asked innocent question like "You really made this?"

One student proudly told me, “I want to do stuff like build houses." I saw his mental wheels turning when I responded "Oh! So you want to own a construction company?" He placed his hand on chin, responding confidently, "Yes"

I shook his hand and said "When you're ready to build your company, come see me so I can build your logo"

"Bet!"

Why Exposure Matters for Young Creatives

Not every child grows up knowing that art, design, and creativity can lead to real careers. Many don’t realize there are people behind every book cover they love, every T-shirt they wear, and every design they see on their favorite albums and products.

College and Career Day gives them access to possibilities they may have never imagined.

As a creative professional, I believe it’s my responsibility to show the next generation that their ideas have value. Creativity is a skill worth growing and there are careers where imagination is the job description.