Graduating from college is a huge accomplishment. It’s hard work, late nights, and tough exams. These commemorable moments have come to a (relative) end. Classes are finally over, and students are ready to move on to the next exciting chapter. Andrea Lustgarten is ready to turn the page, and she has a story to share with you.

“Excellence consists of many steps. Part of that process is giving yourself the time to develop your ideas and think of solutions.”

Andrea L.

How did you know which was the right school for you?

Looking back, I didn't. I went where all of my friends were going but not where I really wanted. After two years at Boston University, I transferred to the University of Miami to be closer to my family. I couldn't have made a better decision.

How did you decide on your major?

I started studying Graphic Design because I always liked to draw, paint, and take pictures, so it felt like the most appropriate career. When I transferred to UM, I switched from Graphic Design to Creative Advertising because I found an advantage to the way it was segmented into three parts, one of which focused on the creative arts. I found it very similar to Graphic Design and learned a lot from the marketing aspect of it too.

Did you move away to college?

Before attending BU, I lived in Panama. My parents wanted me to have a better education and future, so we looked for opportunities to attend school in the USA. My family later moved to Miami, so it all worked out.

What was the most challenging thing to manage while being enrolled?

Doing something and sticking to it. I would edit designs a thousand times and never felt satisfied because I knew what I was capable of and wanted to strive for more. Setting such high expectations for myself had me fixing what didn't need to be fixed— and that was a real challenge.

What did you love the most about university?

Making new friends, experiencing the different events and opportunities the university had to offer, and building supportive and quality relationships with my teachers.

What’s the best advice you could give to an incoming freshmen?

Trust your intuition to do what you think is best for you. Strive on your own to give 110% and take every opportunity that will help you succeed.

What advice do you have for those looking to excel in their studies?

When you leave things for last minute, you're setting yourself up for failure because you'll settle for what you could create that first time. Excellence consists of many steps. Part of that process is giving yourself the time to develop your ideas and think of solutions.

What’s one thing you wish you knew before attending school?

This is going to sound super weird, but at the end of the day — grades don't matter. What matters is that you work hard and give it the best you can.

What are you looking forward to the most about life after college?

Making a real difference. I want my designs to contribute to the world in a way that brings about something positive and not just profit. Whether that's designing a flyer for a good cause or volunteering to teach kids who want to learn about art.

How do you feel about reaching this milestone?

Mixed feelings. Sad because it's basically the end of an era, but excited because of everything I'm gonna learn through working with clients and other designers.

Your journey has been a rewarding one, and what often seems like the end is only the beginning. We’re so excited to see where your path after graduation will take you! Whether you go off and travel, meet new friends, move for a job or meet a new love, our professional photographers in over 450 destinations will be sure and able to capture it all! Regardless of your journey, we’re sure it will be one for the books!

🎉 Apply the discount code CONGRADS at check out 🎉
with a student email for 25% off all our packages and destinations
Promo valid through May 31, 2019.