Andrew Alger

Graphic Design + Interactive Media
Class of 2008
Hometown: Roundup, MT

What is your favorite spot on campus?

The best spot on campus is underneath the huge tree between the synagogue and the walking bridge. It's close enough to the sidewalk that friends will spot you and walk over to talk, but far enough away from everything to have a personal feel.

Where do you like to work on your design?

Creating takes place anywhere that inspiration comes from. I have been standing in line to check out at a grocery store when something sparks an idea that can help me with a design problem. That's why I have to carry my trusty moleskin with me everywhere. It's great to be working in a computer lab on campus during finals or midterms, when all the students are running on caffeine and nerves, working frantically to complete projects.

Which Liberal Studies or Foundation Studies classes did you find the most surprising or useful?

The Liberal Studies courses allow you to gather a broad knowledge, which is a must for designers and artists. They also allow students to have open discussions about interesting topics. Students are willing to listen to different ideas even if they strongly disagree with those ideas.

What did your favorite professor do to earn your respect or admiration?

My favorite professor, Martin Mendelsberg, has earned my respect and admiration through his knowledge of the field. Having a class with him is terrifying and exhilarating all at the same time. I can spend six hours in his class and not want to leave, because he can push students to work at their limits.

How would you describe the students who attend RMCAD?

Students here care deeply about what they are doing. They are enthusiastic about their work and that creativity has an ability to spread. If I am in a rut on a project, my favorite thing to do is to go talk to other students and see what they are doing. When you talk to someone who really enjoys what they are doing, you can't help but to get excited yourself.

Was there a moment when RMCAD changed from "a school" to "my school" for you?

I began to realize that this was where I belonged when a couple of friends and I were walking down the main quad one day and the majority of people who passed by said hello or stopped one of us to chat.