Alumni Spotlight: Rachel Brown
Written By: Layla Dubreucq
Rachel Brown (DAS ’18) currently works as a 3D Generalist at The AMES Companies. In her current role, Rachel leverages her expertise in 3D modeling, lighting, design, animation, and rendering to create stunning product visualization renders. Her work has been prominently featured on various websites, including Amazon, Home Depot, Lowes, Wayfair, and the ClosetMaid website, as well as in Home Depot and Lowes stores nationwide.
Prior to working at The AMES Companies, Rachel worked as a 3D Generalist for companies like Kwest and Precision One Health, Inc. Rachel credits Digital Worlds with igniting her passion for 3D modeling.
How did your time at Digital Worlds lead you to the career you have today? Was there an experience or project you had during your time here that stood out to you or helped steer you toward your current path?
When I was at Digital Worlds, I discovered how much I enjoy 3D modeling. It was something I had not done beforehand. My 3D classes at Digital Worlds gave me the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to start on my career path. Some of the friends I had made in the program helped me get jobs in the field as well.
What’s the most exciting part of your current career?
I love being able to turn ideas into beautiful visual 3D art. What you can create in 3D feels infinite and up to your imagination. The limitless possibilities along with the rewarding feeling after making it happen are very exciting.
What advice would you give to a new DAS student just starting out in college?
I would recommend new students make time to connect with other students. The University is a great place to make friends for life and bond with people who share similar interests in similar fields. It is important to focus on your studies, but I also recommend making time to be with friends. It will be worth it and you will look back on those memories and treasure them.
What advice would you give to a soon-to-be or recent graduate who is looking for a job in this field?
The advice I would give a soon-to-be or recent graduate looking for a job is to be patient and goal-oriented. I didn’t find a 3D job in my field right away and I was very discouraged. I recommend being patient if that happens. Continue practicing your skills, working on your portfolio, and keep sight of your goal and job that you want to reach. Lately, whenever I am working on a long-term goal that seems out of reach, I remind myself of a JFK quote, “We choose to go to the moon and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.”
What’s one of your favorite memories from your time at Digital Worlds?
My favorite memories were spending time with the friends I made at DW. I would host study sessions at my house after class. We would take the bus to my house to study and do homework together. It was a great way to connect and interact with my classmates outside of school while also being productive. I remember one time we threw a birthday party study session at my house for Allison’s birthday. We were filming homework for Mr. Difato’s class at the same time. It was so much fun.
