Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Groups
Websites
Timeline
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Melissa Ruf

Ames,IA

Summary

Creative professional specializing in Biological and Pre-Medical Illustration and Experiential Graphic Design, with a robust background in graphic design, illustration, and biological sciences. Expertise in visual design principles including typography, color theory, and layout is complemented by significant spatial awareness for effective two- and three-dimensional solutions. Proven track record of developing engaging user-centered designs, including wayfinding systems and interactive elements that leverage technology for enhanced user experiences. Highly proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and web design, with a strong focus on productivity, teamwork, and successful project execution.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Customer Service Team Lead/Supervisor

Sam's Club
Ames, IA
08.2021 - Current
  • Maintaining a positive attitude by smiling, greeting and thanking members
  • Providing exceptional customer service to members across the club as needed, answering any questions they may have
  • Provides member service by acknowledging the member and identifying members needs; assisting members with purchasing decisions; locating merchandise; resolving member issues and concerns; promoting the company's products and services

Drawing Instructor

Ankeny Art Center
Ankeny, IA
03.2022 - 05.2022
  • Design and deliver weekly drawing lessons focused on foundational techniques, including line, form, value, perspective, and composition
  • Lead live demonstrations, providing hands-on instruction and constructive feedback to adult learners of varying skill levels
  • Manage art supply inventory, ensuring students have access to necessary materials for each session
  • Foster an engaging and supportive classroom environment, tailoring lessons to meet individual student needs and learning styles
  • Track student progress and provide personalized feedback to encourage creative growth and technical proficiency

Teaching Assistant

College of Design
Ames, IA
01.2019 - 05.2019
  • Collaborated closely with the lead design instructor to develop and implement engaging learning exercises that reinforced key design principles and concepts
  • Provided individualized support to students both in and out of the studio, guiding them in understanding and applying design techniques to their projects
  • Led hands-on demonstrations to teach students new methods and tools, fostering skill development and creative exploration

Graphic Design and Marketing Intern

Allied Cooperative
Adams, WI
06.2017 - 08.2017
  • Managed and organized customer information digitally, ensuring accuracy and accessibility for streamlined communication and service delivery
  • Created compelling visual aids, utilizing photography and Adobe Photoshop/InDesign to design impactful materials for marketing and client presentations
  • Coordinated and executed events, including client luncheons, facility tours, and seminars, ensuring seamless logistics and positive customer experiences
  • Provided on-site support by delivering supplies to various Allied Cooperative locations, maintaining strong relationships and efficient operations across multiple sites

Education

M.A. - Experiential Graphic Design

Iowa State University
Ames, IA
12.2024

B.A - Biological Pre-Medical Illustration

Iowa State University
Ames, IA
05.2021

Skills

  • Adobe After Effects
  • Adobe InDesign
  • Figma
  • Graphic Design
  • Photography
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Typography
  • Layout Design
  • Adobe Creative Suite
  • Illustration
  • Adobe Premiere
  • Procreate

Certification

Driver's License

Groups

Biological & Pre-Medical Illustration Club, Figure Drawing & Co-op Chair, 08/01/20, 05/31/21, Scheduled and announced models for weekly figure drawing sessions, attended weekly figure drawing sessions., Posed model in various dynamic poses and settings., Collected fees and recorded participation and managed co-op budget with treasurer., Trained incoming chair/s.

Timeline

Drawing Instructor

Ankeny Art Center
03.2022 - 05.2022

Customer Service Team Lead/Supervisor

Sam's Club
08.2021 - Current

Teaching Assistant

College of Design
01.2019 - 05.2019

Graphic Design and Marketing Intern

Allied Cooperative
06.2017 - 08.2017

M.A. - Experiential Graphic Design

Iowa State University

B.A - Biological Pre-Medical Illustration

Iowa State University

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Melissa Ruf