Not many college graduates can say they landed their dream job just a year out of college, but that’s exactly what happened to me. I joined Ohio Magazine, a publication dedicated to celebrating the people, places, history, food and travel destinations that make the Buckeye State special. Think of it as a love letter to Ohio, with plenty of inspiration for readers looking to explore their own backyard.

At 24, I was promoted to Assistant Art Director, and by 27, I was leading the magazine as Art Director. My mission? To refresh and redesign the publication for a younger, more youthful baby boomer audience eager to discover new places, plan weekend getaways and experience everything Ohio and the surrounding region had to offer. That meant developing creative concepts for covers and feature stories, directing photographers and illustrators, collaborating with freelance creatives and bringing each issue to life from the first layout to the final printed page. I also helped redesign our companion travel publication, LongWeekends, and brought that same editorial eye to custom publications for clients across the state.

My 10 years at Ohio Magazine were some of the most stressful but rewarding years of my career. I met countless small business owners and public figures, discovered places I never would have found on my own and traveled the state from its southernmost point along the Ohio River to the shores of Lake Erie. It was an experience that pushed me creatively, taught me how to tell stories through design and helped me find my voice as an art director.

This is where I truly fell in love with typography, thoughtful editorial layouts and bold but clean design. I learned how the right typeface, a strong image and a little creative risk could turn a page into an experience. Looking back, those years helped shape not only the designer I am today, but also the way I approach every project: with curiosity, a love of storytelling and a belief that good design should always have a purpose.

Ten years and 120 issues later, here are a few of my favorite projects from along the way, including some award-winning work that made those years even more memorable.