“FSU has given me a space to not only refine my craft but also become prepared to make meaningful contributions to the advertising industry.”
Fast Facts
- Leader: President of the Art Society at FSU
- Transfer Student: Transferred to FSU her sophomore year
- Loves Fashion: Designs screen-prints for T-shirts
- Designer: Creates websites for fun
- Gives Back: Volunteers at FSU’s FabLab
Sophia Jusino is an IDEA Grant recipient and president of the Art Society at FSU. During her time at FSU, Jusino has developed research and several art projects to raise awareness about the dangers of overconsumption and consumer culture.
Her work with the Art Society at FSU has allowed her to share resources about the Department of Art. She takes pride in giving FSU students an opportunity to engage with the community through their art.
Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?
I chose to attend Florida State University to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with a focus on advertising because of the exceptional research and career opportunities the university offers. FSU is known for having one of the top career development centers in the country, with a strong emphasis on fostering student innovation and personal growth. The electronic art area within the College of Fine Arts aligns with my creative vision and career goals and provides a platform to blend artistic expression with strategic communication. What sets FSU apart for me is the Center for Undergraduate Research, which offers unmatched support for students pursuing advanced research and professional development. The department’s programs provide invaluable skills, mentorship and resources that help students excel in their fields and receive recognition for their hard work. Through these opportunities, FSU has given me a space to refine my craft and prepare to make meaningful contributions to the advertising industry while promoting ethical and environmentally conscious practices.
What are some academic achievements you’re most proud of?
I’m most proud of my IDEA Grant project, which explores the commodification of happiness in advertising through a satirical art campaign for a fictional company. The project relies heavily on viewer interaction, using irony and absurdity to critique the deceptive practices of modern advertising, particularly the exploitation of socio-political issues for profit. The campaign invites viewers to engage with its interactive elements, including QR codes that lead to a website and social media accounts, immersing them in a narrative that mirrors real-world consumer culture.
My BFA thesis project delves into psychoanalytical concepts such as the Freudian death drive, media and marketing influences on casual drug consumption among youth and explores the delicate balance between pleasure through participation and the dangers of addiction.
How have you served the FSU community and beyond?
Founding and leading the Art Society at FSU, a registered student organization, has significantly shaped my leadership development. By organizing student-led events, I have developed diverse workshops and ideas, providing FSU students within and outside the Department of Art with valuable knowledge about the art department’s resources and opportunities.
I’ve enjoyed connecting with art organizations in Tallahassee, bringing students new opportunities and fostering a vibrant creative network. We are working to ensure the Art Society at FSU can continue to thrive and give other students the chance to take on active, impactful roles in the arts community.