Jeffrey Schermer, School of Communication alum and imaginative virtuoso, is using his talents at the “Happiest Place on Earth.” Schermer, who graduated in 2015, works on the creative team at Walt Disney World constructing innovative solutions and forming new ways to promote and stimulate Disney Parks and Resorts.
Schermer shared, “Communications courses taught me applicable theories and frameworks for effectively reaching people and changing their minds. Organizations like Arrowhead Advertising gave me the strategic and creative tools I needed to set myself apart early on.”
Besides enhancing skills such as theoretical and persuasive modes of communication, Schermer believes working in this industry and in his career has changed the way he looks at the world. “When you are a creative, every problem in the world is just an opportunity to create an idea. So it definitely changes the way you look at problems and challenges,” said Schermer.
Working alongside his art direction partner, Schermer is given an objective or problem, is responsible for brainstorming new ways to solve them, and must then present these ideas to leaders of huge partner companies such as Marvel, Pixar, and LucasFilm.
If you’d like to learn a little bit more about this inventor, keep reading!
Who do you admire and why?
Ronnie Fieg, the founder of clothing brand KITH. He understands the power of Why in the creative process. He is also relentless in bringing his projects to life, and knows how to extend his projects across multiple unexpected platforms.
Where do you look for inspiration?
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
It doesn’t matter what you do. If you’re the best, you’ll be rich.
What is the best social media account to follow?
@WorldStar
What is your favorite office snack?
Sour Worms
What Jeopardy category could you clear, no problem?
Memes
Share a notable experience you’ve had at work.
I’d say my most notable experience is having a project I worked on be featured on Ellen. Seeing my work get some free airtime on national TV was incredible. (View it here)
How do you handle work-life balance?
Stay up late and cram as much life as you can into the hours when you aren’t working.
What advice would you give yourself in college?
Spend more time making spec ads and building up your portfolio.
Contact Jeff!
E-mail: Jeffrey.schermer@gmail.com