We recently caught up with Kjersti Faret, who graduated in 2014 with a BFA in Illustration. She talked about her favorite teachers and classes at SVA, the importance of creative experimentation, how she started her own business and more.

Where are you working now?
I work for myself. I started my own business while still in school, called Cat Coven. About four months after I graduated, I had already built up my business enough that I could fully support myself on it. I make all my own designs and print them on T-shirts, tanks and other clothing items, as well as accessories, and sell them in an online store and to retailers.
Did your interests change from when you applied to SVA to when you graduated?

I started out wanting to do editorial illustration and publishing. I ended up loving making products myself and being my own boss. I would still love to do book covers but don't care so much about editorial anymore.

What's been the biggest adjustment to the work world?

Being your own boss means everything is your responsibility. You have to create your own schedule and be on top of time management very much (thankfully school prepares you for this a bit). Finally being completely dependent on myself and not my parents and not having to answer to teachers was a great feeling.

Why did you want to attend college in NYC?

There are so many museums, shows and important people here. Also going to college in a big city helps you feel like you're already in the real world.

Which course or instructor made the biggest impression on you?

Bruce Waldman was my etching teacher for three years, starting in sophomore year. He is the most kind and enthusiastic person. He will be your personal cheerleader but still give you a powerful critique.

Any advice for incoming students?

Printmaking classes—take as many as you can. Specifically, screen printing with David Sandlin, etching with Bruce Waldman, and woodcutting with Dominick Rapone. Make sure you experiment with as many different mediums the first two years as you can. Maybe you think you love pen and ink only, but you may end up graduating four years later as a gouache expert.

How can we follow your work?

My website for my illustration portfolio is kjerstifaret.com, my shop is catcovenshop.com, @cat_coven is my Instagram account and my blog is kjerstifaret.tumblr.com.