We had the good fortune of connecting with Shauntel Barron and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shauntel, did college have a meaningful and positive impact for you?
The overall college experience made a positive impact on my life because it allowed me to “find myself” and what I wanted to do with my life ultimately. Many of my foundational relationships, learnings, and experiences while in college has propelled me into being the person I am as an adult. It helped me see what path I wanted to strive for on my terms. Looking back at the higher education investment that I made has changed my thoughts and views on college solely because I don’t think earning an education should cost an arm and a leg especially when it doesn’t guarantee you a job. It took me a few years to even get my foot in the door to work in the field that I desired so I couldn’t afford to pay student loans that I accrued while in school. Although I don’t regret my decision to enroll in a four-year university I never felt prepared to go out into the workforce to begin a career in the creative industry. It never made sense to me why would I go to a college when it didn’t guarantee nor prepared me on a level to go out and start a career. Most, of the things that I’ve learned today, has solely been gained through gaining field experience and a combination of internships/apprenticeships and investing in online courses. So, was it worth it? Yes! Because without this experience I would’ve never started my design business a few years later after college.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout my family, friends, and clients that I’ve worked with these past few years because they’ve constantly supported my business through encouragement, word of mouth referrals, and just being loyal to seeing me accomplishing my heart desires throughout the years.

Nominate someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.