UNF alum thrives in role as project design assistant
Rebeca Mata ('21) is a project design assistant for the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) — handling a variety of web and digital projects. Her role affords her enjoyable opportunities to interact with students, faculty and staff. The Jacksonville native and UNF alum holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design and digital media. While majoring in graphic design, she served as an officer in the CMD+N Graphic Design Club. Her hobbies include illustration, typesetting and coding. In addition, she is currently learning 3D modeling and printing in her spare time.In your current role, what are your specific duties?
I design most of the marketing materials for the different events OUR hosts, manage the website and photograph our different events. I also work on PANDION, our undergraduate research journal.
What do you enjoy most about working at UNF?
What I enjoy most is the interactions with the students during our poster symposiums. It is amazing seeing so many people passionate about their research and chatting about it. Also, everyone I work with is very kind and understanding, which makes it a great working environment.
What influenced your decision to study graphic design?
I actually entered college undetermined what major to choose. I had only taken one graphic design class in high school. I took a few introduction classes at UNF and I really started to find my passion for it. The teachers and fellow students were influential to my decision to continue.
What were your career aspirations growing up?
I wanted to be a veterinarian because of all the animals I grew up around.
Do you have a favorite spot on campus? If so, where is it and why is it your favorite?
My favorite spot on campus is the second floor of the Fine Arts building where the windows are. I love enjoying being able to see down to The Green and enjoy the sun.
What is one memory you treasure?
One memory I treasure is Christmases as a kid. We used to spend them visiting family in Texas and then returning home to continue our own traditions. It was a lot of fun when all my siblings were still close and did not branch out so far.
Who/what inspires you to be your best?
My best inspiration comes from my culture. I love the art and landscapes of Mexico, which always gives me ideas for personal projects. Also, my siblings/family since they are all hard workers who decide to walk their own path and inspire me to do the same.
What is a fun fact about you many people may not know?
I am the youngest of six and my closest sibling is 10 years older than me. I was very much a surprise child.