Today we’d like to introduce you to Loren Dela Cruz.
Hi Loren, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I had a love for art at an early age. One of my fondest memories were the Art Corps programs at Miramar Ranch Elementary School where we got to create different forms of art such as paper, paint, charcoal, etc. It wasn’t until my junior year at Scripps Ranch High School where I was introduced to the graphic design class taught by Tom Eberman. Instantly, I knew this was a career path I wanted from here on out. After spending my junior and senior year with Mr. Eberman and learning more about graphic design, I attended Miramar College from 2016 up until the Covid-19 pandemic. During my time, the amount of art and design classes I took prepared myself before I transferred. I enjoyed my experience at Miramar and the courses I took really introduced me into the design world. I then transferred to San Diego State University in the Fall of 2022, not knowing I was going to be part of a something special. There are countless memories I can recall regarding the fun my friends and I had, while also working our absolute hardest during our two years. There was a high amount of dedication we put that prepared ourselves for when we left as we learned the professional world of graphic design and the business aspect. After graduation, I continued working on personal projects to help practice myself, but also build up on my portfolio to share with friends, family, and clients. Currently, I’m in touch with an old friend helping her rebrand her party decorating business, and at the moment we are in planning of phase two this coming February.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There was a lot of highs and lows to how I got here. Primarily, school and work was a high priority. My family and I believe education is very important and I am so lucky to be able to have that experience. But, with education comes a lot of patience and sacrifices. Alongside with school, having a job was also important as I was paying for my college education. Post-Covid and transferring to SDSU, I had to readjust myself back to the school and work lifestyle as I took a gap year prior. It was a struggle to balance both tasks because I wasn’t sure what should be my main focus. Throughout my first semester at SDSU, I thought to myself that I had to do well to prove someone I can do it. Those motives didn’t help me to the point where I started to lose myself, both physically and mentally. I would break into tears every other day that semester because I felt like I wasn’t trying my best. After much discussion with those closest to me, I understood that it is hard to balance both situations, but at the end of the day, the only person I’m trying to prove is myself. No matter what the outcome of this journey was, I will still be praised no matter what. I’ve learned that maintaining a healthy relationship with myself and my lifestyle works, especially with time management and planning. People will tell you that they are proud of you, but most importantly, you also have to tell yourself that. In retrospective, the hard work definitely paid off and I am beyond proud of myself for what I accomplished.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a graphic designer that specializes in brand identity, environmental design, and marketing. I have a few pieces that I’m proud of in my portfolio. My first piece is my poster design concept for SDSU’s Open Studios. Open Studios is a part of Explore SDSU which is an open house event for incoming freshmen and transfer students. Every year, the School of Art & Design selects a student’s poster amongst a class and mine was selected for the Spring of 2024. It brought me joy to see my work published on social media and around campus. My other piece I’m proud of is my personal branding. Creating a stationary set was fun because I got to add my own flair while also producing printed sets such as business cards and promotional pieces. What sets myself apart from others is my personality. I’m very animated and it reflects on the work that I produce. I try to add character and amusement and it leaves viewers feel immersed when they see my work.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
There are a lot of things that make me happy. But, my top would be music, art, and family & friends. I grew up in a musical household. My dad plays various instruments and my mom sings in church choir, so there isn’t a day where there is silence in the house. I also took choir all throughout Marshall Middle School where I was awarded Outstanding Soloist in a competition as well as performing in Carnegie Hall with my fellow choir members. Music always lifts me up depending on my mood, especially when I’m doing projects. It’s my Zen when I go out on walks and I will never help but to sing most of the time. It’s no surprise that art makes me happy. In any form or medium, I get the anticipation of indulging in one’s piece. I love analyzing the work either by its meaning or how I see it. Art is always my inspiration every day. My family and friends are my rock, they have shaped me into the person I am today. I get the joy of seeing my family every day and feeling absolutely blessed. We’re constantly trying new things around San Diego, and often times we are traveling around the world. When I’m with my friends, there’s never a dull moment. They match my energy 110% and we would create the craziest memories to look back on. I like to treat my friends as sisters from different misters and brothers from another mother.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cruzinwithdesign.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cruzinwithdesign/?hl=en
Image Credits
Loren Dela Cruz
