Abstract

This paper presents a project developed by the authors to help students transcend mind-blocks caused by negative stereotypes associated with the state where their university is located. The hypothesis made is that the location of an educational institution could limit or impede students' perceptions of self-worth as emerging designers. The authors investigate the correlations between placement rates, confidence rates of new graduates, and sustenance as graphic designers in the local market of Oklahoma City to the stereotypes of Oklahoma caused by its history, location, and contemporary events in the specific case of a mid-sized state university with a four year BFA in Graphic Design. The authors aim to make a case for curriculum that can engage students from anywhere in the world, irrespective of their proximity to a design hub, to develop a body of work that is competitive in the global economy.