Eye Design Studio owner Chris Bradle always says that being a graphic designer is an awesome job because you get to know a little bit about a lot of things. Whenever we take on a new client we do tons of research on that industry so we can create the most effective design for its audience. We get to learn the insider perspective on many industries which is definitely a unique aspect to our profession.

My first job out of college was as an editorial designer for a network of amateur sports magazines covering running, biking, skiing and other individual sports. While working there I learned more about VO2 testing, speed work and plantar fasciitis than my athletic abilities will ever necessitate. And every year before triathlon season we did a story on what to expect for your first triathlon. It was three years later that I would actually put this knowledge to use.

Completing a triathlon was one of the things on my “Before I turn 30″ list. First I had to get over the biggest hurdle; I never learned to swim properly. I received wonderful instruction at the Mecklenburg Aquatic Center (which I highly recommend for any adult who wishes to be a stronger swimmer). Once I had the basics down I could start my training. I loved the training more than I could have ever estimated. It was so great to have my workouts planned out for me every day and the variety of training for the three sports really kept me interested, and almost injury free, during the whole time.

On October 5th I was ready to go. I think I was more nervous about doing the triathlon than the day I got married which is so silly since it was an hour of my life not a lifetime. Overall it was a fantastic experience. Great weather. Great fellow participants. Great big hills during the bike (well, maybe that part wasn’t great). But seriously, I had a wonderful time. I wouldn’t say I am hooked (which is what everyone asks) but I would definitely like to do one again sometime in my life. Also, it wasn’t as hard as I thought it was going to be (though some would argue that I didn’t push myself hard enough).

I wasn’t experienced with the sport of triathlon before I started working at the sports magazine and look what happened. At Eye Design Studio we have the privilege of working with fascinating clients every day so who knows what adventures will come my way. I can’t wait.

-Rhonda Sergeant, Eye Design Studio