by School of Art + Design
February 13, 2022
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Born and raised in Portland, Naomi Likayi is a first-generation Congolese American who came to PSU fresh out of high school. Initially interested in animation and character design, she thought of PSU as a stepping stone to another institution. Feeling defeated when she didn’t get accepted, she took a year off to reassess her options. Her research led her to the realization that graphic design was a good alternative for achieving her goals. “PSU’s nationally ranked design program was right under my nose,” she said. “I’ve been on an awesome trajectory ever since.”
Naomi sees the graphic design program as a collaborative program with an individualistic approach. The emphasis on community and support from faculty, staff, and fellow students made for a rewarding experience — even in the face of remote learning due to the global pandemic.
“Take advantage of being in a welcoming community willing to help you. Go to Show and Tell and ask questions. Ask a lot of questions. Make friends and try to be in classes like A+D Projects where you learn to work with others while forming your own voice.”
Naomi is excited about the future. She would like to work for a design studio but also plans on freelancing as an illustrator. In January 2022, she started a design internship with Murmur Creative, a Portland firm founded by PSUGD alum Andrew Bolton. “Being a designer is so cool,” she said. “You can do anything: animation, illustration. The possibilities are endless, and you can find your niche.”
saynaomilikayi.com