Ab Rieve

Illustration BA and Theatre Design and Technology BA '23

"The most surprising and exciting thing [about Columbia] has been how many career-furthering experiences I’ve been able to be a part of in both my classes and on a community basis," says the recent Illustration and Theatre Design graduate.

What would you say has been the most surprising thing you learned at Columbia?

I’d say the most surprising and exciting thing has been how many career-furthering experiences I’ve been able to be a part of in both my classes and on a community basis. I’ve been a project manager on a mural, tabled at conventions, organized multiple large-scale events, worked on three film sets, and designed costumes for two musicals- all on campus!

What individuals or programs at Columbia were helpful to you in reaching your goal of graduating? 

My four years here at Columbia have been challenging but so rewarding, and I really couldn’t have done it without my professors and mentors. I would like to give huge shoutouts to Chris Arnold, Ivan Brunetti, Cheri Charlton, Chris Eliopoulos, Heather Gilbert, Frances Maggio, Jackie Penrod, Patti Roeder, Grant Sabin, and Erica Sandvig. I’d also like to give my love to the Illustration Student Group (ISG)- it was the first club I joined freshman year, and I’m honored to be ending my senior year as vice president! Thank you for all the support and guidance you’ve given me!

What are your plans for after graduation?

I plan to put both degrees to good use. I’m going to continue freelancing in illustration and creating merch, selling at art fairs, and designing for clients! On the theatre side of things, I plan on working with any theater or film set that will have me; I love scenic and costume construction as well as designing, and I hope to keep learning and making connections in the industry!

If you were going to sum up your experience at Columbia in one sentence, what would you say?