With A.I. impacting many careers, Emma Kiesbye '26, a Digital Media major with an Animation concentration, transferred to Marist to hone her artistic skills and encourage students to embrace new technologies.

Before transferring, Kiesbye came across Marist students' animation portfolios. Kiesbye said she was "blown away at what the students had created…this motivated me to apply [to Marist] because I wanted to further expand upon my knowledge and skills for animating." Moreover, though Kiesbye acknowledges that artificial intelligence is impeding the animation field, she emboldens students not to be opposed to pursuing the degree but rather learn from these technologies. She states, "Don't be discouraged and turn away from the animation field because you fear it will no longer be relevant. AI can never truly replicate the human emotion that surges through a real, organic artwork."

With hopes of creating movies and short films aimed toward older demographics, Kiesbye has found that regardless of medium, art must always be relatable to connect viewers with the piece effectively. Her goal is to create stories that delve into societal and psychological issues. 

Regarding her Marist experience, Kiesbye particularly appreciates the feedback she has received from peers, professors, faculty, and staff. She credits these connections and feedback to improving herself as an artist. "I didn't think it was possible to be more excited about my career choice than when I initially chose this path, but my professors have enhanced my passion for the field. The opportunities provided on campus have allowed me to grow my artistic skills as a Student Assistant for Creative Services in the Office of Communications and Marketing."