How I Became a Science Ally

After over twenty years as a graphic designer and marketing professional, my niche of visual scientific communication evolved naturally and has become the most rewarding aspect of my career. For  success, professionals in the field of Communications must be dedicated to learning and understanding the topics they are asked to illustrate—which is particularly important when tasked with relaying science-related information.

I grew up in an environment that nurtured my artistic talents while simultaneously fostering a profound respect for the world of science. My mother, Charlotte Guschl, always ensured that crayons and markers were readily available while my father, Dr. Randloph Guschl, a dedicated chemist and pioneer of STEM education, provided the blank side of research and email print-outs for us to draw on. This upbringing ingrained the vital roles that both science and art play in our society. Through my close relationship with my father (and later on, a chemical engineer brother) I have learned first hand about the intricate and unique thought processes of scientists, giving me insight into the challenges they encounter when attempting to translate their scientific aspirations into visual forms. My journey reflects a unique fusion of a career in visual design and creativity plus analytical thinking, encouraging others to appreciate the powerful connection of visual communication that lies at the intersection of art and science.

Throughout my k-12 education I was always encouraged to participate in the highest level of science and math courses, along with all of the other liberal arts core courses. Education has always been highly prized within my family and I was encouraged to attend the best school for my profession. I am a graduate with high honors from Syracuse University Newhouse School of Public Communications, where I was awarded the prize for Most Promising Communications Student. After graduation and many years later, classmates of mine would hire me to do their professional websites. From there, word spread that I understood scientists, their passion for their work, and, most of all, my ability to translate their concepts into beautiful, memorable art.