Christina Koch
Senior Designer, Hulu
Studio Arts major, Graphic Design emphasis
What have you been doing since graduating from LMU?
After graduating LMU, I held two part time internships: one at a non-profit organization and one with a fashion website for almost two years. I did not have any internships while at LMU, so I wanted to obtain job experience before moving into a full-time job. I went on to join a startup company called Steelhouse that specialized in direct-response advertising. It was a great entrance into the creative field that gave me skills in production work.
I then spent three years at BLT Communications where I worked mainly in the marketing of Broadway productions. I acquired many skills and learned a great deal. In 2016 I left BLT for Hulu, and have remained there since. I work as a Senior Designer for Originals in GreenHouse, our in-house creative studio.
What is your day-to-day job like?
My day-to-day ranges from QC-ing artwork received from agencies to creating mood boards and toolkits for new Hulu Originals and everything in between. Hulu is a fast-moving environment, so anything can come up throughout the day!
How did your undergraduate studies prepare you for your career?
LMU gave me a well-rounded art education. Rather than just focusing only on Graphic Design, the core curriculum includes classes like figure drawing, photography, 2D and 3D design, and art history classes. These were typically were my favorite classes, as they pushed me to think of new ways into an assignment and pull inspirations from many different mediums.
Why did you decide to major in Studio Arts?
I took one Graphic Design class in high school and enjoyed it, so it was always in the back of my mind. When I started at LMU I took all of the pre-requisites first in order to try and decide what major to declare. I took a couple of art classes and decided, if I enjoy it and it’s something I am good at, then I needed to just go for it!
Tell us a little about your concentration in Studio Arts. And did you have a second major or any minors?
My concentration was in Graphic Design. While I did not have a minor, I took many photography classes, ranging from film to color photography. I absolutely loved all the photography classes I took and it made me a better designer.
What was your favorite aspect of the STAR program?
There were many aspects of the Studio Arts program that were fantastic. The small classes were pivotal in forming relationships with fellow students and faculty. As mentioned before, the wide range of classes with different mediums gives you the foundation to become a well-rounded artist.
Where you involved in any meaningful organizations/activities while at LMU?
I was in Pi Beta Phi while at LMU. A lot of my sisters in Pi Phi, and even other sororities, were in the art program. I formed so many great friendships and connection through LMU's Greek life.
What is your favorite memory from your time at LMU?
The first thing that pops into my head is the time spent in the photography dark rooms. For me that was a time to really delve deep into my art, and it was such a calming space.
Do you have any advice for current STAR students?
I would say, in terms of a career in graphic design, understand what your strengths are. At the beginning of my career I was a fast, detail oriented production designer. That allowed me to form a solid base and then take the time to work on the more creative aspects of my career and get me to where I am today.
Try and surround yourself with people you look up to. I have had fantastic bosses that taught me so much and took the time to help me grow as a designer.
Lastly, love what you do. If you are unhappy with an aspect of your career, be vocal. You can shape your career.