Gavin Brennan

Finding out about this profession was a challenge. I took graphic design classes in high school, which were great, but not what I ultimately wanted to do as a career. It was only when I went to Montclair State for a tour that I learned about the profession.

After this, I researched heavily about all of the schools in the area that offered a product design major. I was seriously debating between a few schools, but what set this program apart was the study abroad opportunities and the sponsor classes. Working with a company is invaluable and learning what they expect from not only their employees, but what other companies might expect in a portfolio is extremely important.

I went to a virtual open house for the program during the pandemic, and everyone had stellar remarks about the program. One thing that stuck out to me was that they said that everyone is like family there. I have always had a difficult time making friends and am pretty shy. Now that I have been attending Montclair’s Product Design program, I can confidently say that everyone in the department is like family to me.

Every professor is friendly and genuinely wants to see you do your best. One of the professors even approached me about an internship my second year in the program and it turned out to be an amazing learning experience. The professors here all work in the industry and know what is expected and how to push their students to succeed. Coming to this program was one of the best decisions I have ever made.