I am the graphic design co-op at Ideopia, an advertising and interactive agency. This past fall, I had the opportunity to attend The Red Tie Gala, a benefit for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Cincinnati. I had spent the months prior working on designs for the evening including invitations, emails, programs, and presentations. The event included silent and live auctions, dinner, fundraising, and dancing. This project supported a great cause and allowed me to spend time with co-workers. It felt great to know that my designs were helping families and making a difference. There were guests everywhere in fancy suits, red bow ties, little black dresses, and even snazzy red shoes. These Ideopians sure know how to throw a party. For their 2009 Holiday Party, instead of the typical get-together at the boss’ place, everyone, their families, and guests headed up to the Great Wolf Lodge at Kings Island. We enjoyed dinner as a company, spent time getting to know one another, and had two whole days of endless entertainment and water park fun (all courtesy of the company). To top it all off the office was closed from mid-December until January in order for everyone to relax and spend the holidays with families and friends. As if all this fun weren’t enough, I get to go to work in jeans and a t-shirt. Of course, I could get all dressed up if I wanted to. Being at Ideopia allows me to work, have a full class schedule, and play a sport. I love that I am able to set my own schedule each semester and shift things around when something comes up.