Eastern Alumni Profiles: Joel Francis

Joel Francis always had an eye for the arts. He is getting ready to take his talents into the digital world.

Francis is in his senior year at the Tyler School of Art at Temple University. After attaining an associate's of fine arts at Montgomery County College, Francis is working on a degree in digital media. 

Francis got a head start on his career at , a school which allows students to benefit from specialized programs while attending high school. Francis always had an eye for arts even before he graduated from Springfield Township High School.

“I grew up as a kid drawing and doodling,” said Francis. “Usually during group projects in schools, I would be the one doing the lettering or the characters. I ended up joining the program at Eastern, and it was a great experience.”

Francis benefited from his head start at Eastern by gain a vast amount of knowledge in commercial art. Francis developed ideas and themes, set up photography shoots, and perfected computer imaging and design for advertisements.

Francis credits one of his former teachers, Nicole Abruzzi, for giving him the best preparation possible for life after Eastern.

“She would give out assignments that were what you would see in a college setting,” Francis said. “Mrs. Abruzzi had an excellent program.  It enhanced my abilities to follow through and keep going. I got a chance to experience the different aspects of art that were out there.”

Francis’ success at Eastern paved the way to his opportunity at Tyler.    

As Francis moves closer to graduation, he is gaining even more experience with a unique internship at the Kimmel Center.

“We have galleries that are for specifically for artists that don’t get a chance to be in an elite art gallery,” said Francis. “I have a photography journalism [program] that I participate in with my friend who is at the Kimmel Center. She and I see eye-to-eye on different ways to motivate and empower youth with ways they can express themselves artistically.”

Francis also spent time overseas last summer. The trip to Europe allowed Francis to explore the continent’s rich history through digital photography. He was fascinated by the many sites and cultural experiences of the Old World.

“That was a great experience,” Francis said. “I brought a digital camera. I got to travel to historical sites and museums and experienced the galleries. I took photos of whatever I could take photos of.”

As Francis continues with his senior year of studies, he has developed skills that will give him a host of options in the working world. Francis continues to network and is always keeping an eye on the business world. He appears to have found the skill that will carry him into the next chapter of his life.

“I’m getting more into web design,” said Francis. “I’m learning more and more. I’ve had a part-time job for several years, so that helps with art supplies. I’m contemplating on building a presentation through PowerPoint. There are several projects I’m staying focused on and building my portfolio.”