Sparking Creativity Through PREP-KC

A friend introduced Magaly to the program, and she jumped right in. Even though she officially joined her senior year, Magaly had already completed two Adobe software courses through independent study. "I just really wanted to do it," she said.

Magaly Sanchez's design journey began with music. "My first introduction to design was album cover art," she shared. "I've been a fan of K-pop since I was seven years old. Design work is clearly seen in album covers, music videos, merchandise, and brand identity. It inspired me to make work that can resonate with others."

Aspirations and Inspiration

"This program is promoting diversity; it opens a gate to young creatives and prepares them extremely well for college courses," she said. "Based on my experience, I hope to inspire young women to express their creativity in ways that boost their confidence."

"I am extremely ambitious and want to succeed in this industry. My parents have made especially significant sacrifices to help me reach where I am today. I want to make them proud."

Magaly is now pursuing her graphic design degree at Johnson County Community College. "I personally know I want to work in a corporate environment. I feel more stable there. Working in group settings and having a product that serves lots of people interests me."

Gaining Foundational Skills and Confidence

Magaly credits PREP-KC with giving her a head start in both skills and confidence. "The program was a really great introduction to using Adobe software. Ms. Agin always provided online or recorded tutorials. I was a lot more confident in my college classes."

"I'd be very lost if I had just started learning Adobe programs in college. It saved me an entire semester."

Real-World Learning and Professional Connections

"Group-setting critiques were very new to me," she said. "But it was a good way to understand how to give proper feedback and how to receive it. Feedback shouldn't offend you—it should be something to learn from."

Magaly also made real-world industry connections through the program. One of those professionals, Chandler from AIGA, later recognized her again at JCCC. These connections have been invaluable in her continued growth as a designer.