Meet Lonald Howard, computer graphics technology major

Lonald Howard, Indianapolis, Ind.

Major: Computer Graphics Technology with minors in psychology and building construction management and a certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Activities

• Resident assistant
• Spring Break Challenge participant
• National Society of Black Engineers
• Phoenix Club at Hillenbrand Hall
• Emily Mauzy Vogel Sophomore Leadership Development Conference
• Boiler League of Tag’s Humans vs. Zombies

My major

We are translating ideas into something that is understandable and reasonable. For example, in my area of construction graphics, I will take start with someone’s idea for a house. It’s my job is to draw it so that it can actually be built. I turn it into a 3D model so you can see what’s going on throughout. For our intro course, we use Adobe Suite – InDesign, Photoshop, Dreamweaver, AfterEffects, and Illustrator. If you get the basics of those, it’s a good start.

A ha!

As an Engineering student, I took CGT 16300 (Graphical Communication and Spatial Analysis) one year as an elective. I thought, “This is the most fun I’ve ever had in class. I wouldn’t mind doing this all year long.” So I transferred into the CGT program. I grew up with a game controller and keyboard in hand. I’ve always been on the computer. In CGT, our projects are the bulk of our grades. I do it and I see it, and it helps we me when it comes time to take exams.

Making a difference

I added a building construction management minor. If I’m going to draw these houses, I need to know how it is being built and understand the materials. If I really want to be successful, I need to have my own business, which is why I’m doing the entrepreneurship certificate. I have my eye on an MBA as well.

Spring Break challenge

I’ve been a team leader for the Ultimate Spring Break Challenge through the Residential Life office. Each spring break, we go somewhere to do volunteer work. Last year, we went to Kissimmee and Orlando, Florida. We helped at the Ronald McDonald House, Give Kids the World, Hubbard House, Habitat for Humanity, and the Orlando Community Food & Outreach Center, it’s part thrift store, grocery store, and outreach center.