Caroline Carlson

ESCANABA — Caroline Italia Carlson, MFA, proudly announces her graduation from Full Sail University, earning her Master of Fine Arts degree with top honors. She was named valedictorian of her graduating class for demonstrating academic excellence, dedication, and exceptional talent throughout her educational journey.

Founded in 1979, Full Sail has received accolades throughout its 40-year history, most recently being recognized as one of the 2019 “Top Graduate & Undergraduate Schools to Study Game Design” by The Princeton Review and the 2018 “School/College of the Year” by the Florida Association of Postsecondary Schools and Colleges.

Carlson received three accolades in addition to graduating valedictorian, highlighting her potential to make significant contributions to the industry and her promise as a future leader. These include a Course Director’s Award in Effective Copywriting, a Course Director’s Award in Multi-Platform Delivery, and a profile in Graphic Design USA Magazine as a 2024 Student to Watch. Her accomplishments reflect not only her talent but also her dedication to her craft.

About Caroline Italia Carlson

A native New Yorker, Carlson earned her BA in Studio Art at Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, New York. She earned a certificate in Web Design at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, New Jersey, and studied illustration and graphic design at the Joe Kubert School of Cartoon and Graphic Art in Dover, New Jersey. Carlson has continued to hone her fine art and digital design skills throughout her career. She has won numerous awards in both arenas across the country.

In 2020, Carlson and her husband, Steven, realized their long-term goal of relocating to Steven’s hometown of Escanaba, with their two sons, Jake and Luke. Carlson has been a Media Specialist at Island Resort and Casino in Harris since October 2022. She is also a professional fine artist. Her favorite medium is oil painting, which she teaches online.

Carlson credits the support of her loved ones, employer, and the casino’s employee assistance program for helping her succeed in completing Full Sail University’s accelerated Media Design MFA program while working full-time.

“It was a rigorous undertaking, allowing for very little sleep. The steadfast support of my family, friends, and employer made it possible. I am grateful for each of them, especially my incredible husband,” said Carlson.

When asked what she plans to do with all her free time now that she has her MFA under her belt, Carlson said in addition to making up for lost sleep, she is making up for lost time with loved ones and has returned to her painting studio and fine art podcast.