Student Spotlight: Nicole Caiati

Posted February 18, 2022

Name: Nicole Caiati

Major: Literature, Media, and Communication (threads: communication and design)

Anticipated Graduation Date: Spring 2024

Hometown: Westport, Connecticut  

Favorite class: Principles of Design (LMC 2720)

Favorite professor: Professor Richard Utz

Internships/clubs: Alpha Xi Delta, Student Government Association, Student Alumni Association, WIT, Georgia Tech Marketing Association

Why did you choose to study communication and design at Georgia Tech?’

I chose to study LMC at Georgia Tech because it is unique. I’ve always had a passion for science and technology, so I knew that enrolling in “your typical liberal arts program” wouldn’t allow me to explore my interests fully. The LMC degree at Tech is extraordinary, because it allows students the freedom to shape their degrees based on their passions!

What’s the coolest research/project/initiative/event you’ve worked on in LMC?

That would be my final project in LMC 2720. In the course, we had to apply all our knowledge to completely rebrand and rebuild an existing brand. With this, I was given the opportunity to fully rebrand Zara, a clothing company that is immensely popular today. During the project, my partner and I created new logo variations, designed a whole new website, and even created merchandise. This experience was valuable and allowed me to confirm that this type of work is what I would love to do after college. 

How does a degree from LMC contribute to your life plans?

A degree from LMC and Georgia Tech will give me a lot of leverage in my career path. Something that we often discussed in my LMC 2000 course was the idea that a lot of students leave college lacking communication skills. This degree will allow me to excel and give me the technical skills I need to become a graphic designer and social media marketer.

What has been your biggest challenge at Georgia Tech, and how did you overcome it?

So far, one of my biggest challenges at Georgia Tech has been the lack of representation for non-STEM majors. I get imposter syndrome sometimes, because most of the people around me are engineers or Computer Science majors. I’m still working on this, but most of what gets me by is knowing that I’m here for a reason and that all of us are knowledgeable in different ways. Also, having such a tight-knit LMC community always helps, because you always have someone you know in one of your classes to support you.

What is the biggest change you see in yourself now from when you started at Georgia Tech?

When I first came to Tech, I felt a little bit intimidated and worried that I wouldn’t fit in. Ever since, I’ve forced myself to step outside of my comfort zone and get more involved around campus. Because I made this push, I’ve met so many great people and established so many long-lasting friendships. I have also learned that life is short and sometimes being adventurous and stepping out of your comfort zone is healthy!

What is your greatest achievement since coming to Georgia Tech?

Receiving faculty honors, as well as becoming the LMC representative in the Undergraduate House of Representatives for Student Government Association!

What’s your favorite spot on campus, and why?

My favorite spot on campus is Tech Green, where the hammocks are. Sometimes when I need a break from the stress of school, I really enjoy kicking back and relaxing on a nice day.

What has been your favorite/most memorable moment in LMC?

I think my most memorable moment in LMC so far has been my career meeting with Professor Utz in LMC 2000: Introduction to LMC. Professor Utz was nice enough to offer meetings with all his students to listen and offer advice to ensure a bright future as LMC students. I appreciated that he took the time to get to know every single one of his students. I came into Tech with a significant amount of self-doubt, and having this meeting with Professor Utz made me feel confident in my choice of becoming an LMC major. His Introduction to LMC course is extremely insightful and helps each student realize their potential at Georgia Tech. Thank you, Professor Utz!

What advice would you give to incoming students in the School of Literature, Media, and Communication?

My advice to incoming LMC students would be to keep an open mind. A lot of LMC majors come in not knowing exactly what they want to do, and that is perfectly okay. The beauty of the major is the level of flexibility and creativity. Take advantage of it! Take as many classes as you want in as many different areas as you desire.

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