My instructors had high expectations for turn-around time and quality. They really set me up to go into the workplace. Lauren MacCauley Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic & Web Design, 2010 , The Art Institute of Dallas, a branch of Miami International University of Art & Design

Teachers Digital Photography and Foundations for Art Classes to High School Students

Lauren McCauley is an upper school fine arts teacher at All Saints’ Episcopal School. She’s responsible for teaching digital photography, foundations of art—which she developed from the ground up—and serving as the yearbook adviser. “During any given week, I help with design projects throughout the school. I’ve done my best to offer a helping hand with the school's graphic design needs, using my design experience from the corporate world,” she says.

Prior to becoming an instructor, Lauren worked in many graphic design positions. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from The Art Institute of Dallas in 2010. Lauren says that her education kept her on her toes because her instructors had very high expectations. “They really set me up to go into the workplace. It wasn't until about a year into my first job that I realized how much my work patterns were a direct reflection of the skills I learned from my teachers.”

She advises current students to stay focused and motivated. “It doesn't get easier in the real world, and the pace set at The Art Institute of Dallas will set you up to take any curve ball you might get.” Lauren mentions that she was excited to become a teacher—a goal she set for herself while working in the corporate world. “I'm advancing my teaching and developing a curriculum and procedures that will be used for years to come. Without The Art Institute of Dallas, I would not have the skills that got me through my first year of teaching. Those skills continue to put me on a path that is full of success.”

Lauren’s commitment to her career means she has to be prepared to keep her students on track. “You have to show them that mistakes happen in the classroom when learning any new skill, and that you didn't become a ‘Photoshop master’ overnight.” She enjoys letting students know that teachers are people too—people who can make mistakes and turn them around into learning experiences.

Today, Lauren’s career is focused on preparing the next generation to work as—or with—creative professionals. “Most kids don't seek out colleges for commercial art, but one day they will work with a commercial artist and know how to speak the lingo and be a better collaborator.” She’s also glad to have the opportunity to take school trips with students, including an excursion to Italy and Greece where she saw incredible historical artwork.

Outside of the classroom, Lauren contributes to her community through service programs. She prides herself in teaching students more than just academics—she teaches them to lead by example.

The Art Institute of Dallas, a branch of Miami International University of Art & Design, is one of The Art Institutes, a system of non-profit schools throughout the United States. Programs, credential levels, technology, and scheduling options vary by school and are subject to change. Not all online programs are available to residents of all U.S. states. Some institutions in The Art Institutes system are campuses of Argosy University. The Art Institute of Dallas, a branch of Miami International University of Art & Design, 8080 Park Lane, Suite 100, Dallas, TX 75231. ©2018. The Art Institutes. All rights reserved. Our email address is materialsreview@aii.edu.

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