Who am I?
I’m Zoe Coats, a recent graduate of Colorado State University. I graduated with a B.A in Integrated Visual Studies and a B.S. in Business Administration. While my work centers heavily on graphic design, I believe having a business background shapes the way I approach creative work. I’ve developed a perspective that connects visual thinking with an understanding of audiences, markets, and brand growth. I’m interested in work that does more than look good, but solves real problems. I also have a special interest in materiality and print design, exploring how the materials shape the design.
Why design?
In high school, I worked at a family-owned antique store that was rebuilding after the pandemic. Wanting to contribute more than my role as a cashier allowed, I taught myself how to use Shopify and redesigned the store’s website. I later began planning their social media and monthly newsletters. Through that experience, I saw firsthand how thoughtful design and communication could help a business reconnect with its audience and grow. That early project taught me that design isn't just about making things look polished; it's about taking initiative, understanding a brand's core story, and building practical tools that empower people to connect.
Beyond design
Beyond my career in graphic design, I love being adventurous, creative, and enthusiastic in every area of life. In my free time, you might find me traveling halfway across the world, discovering new artistic mediums, or learning how to dance. Whether I'm experimenting with physical textures through painting and sculpture, training for an outdoor run, or baking from scratch, I’m constantly exploring how hands-on making fuels my visual work. I enjoy cooking, spending time outdoors, or reading way too many books—always finding how these various passions, curiosities, and stories inform the way I observe the world and make me a more effective designer.
Design Marketing Intern, Eide Bailly
May 2026 - Present
Contract Designer, Amarie Lael Design
Apr 2026 - Present
Senior Student Coordinator, UERU
Jan 2023 - Apr 2026
Design Intern, Tyndale House Publishers
May - Aug 2025
Media & Marketing Manager, MURALS Program
Jul - Dec 2024