Graduation Spotlight: Skylar La, Visualization

Skylar La experienced a series of defining “firsts” while pursuing her master’s degree in Texas A&M University’s Visualization program.

“I remember the first time I discovered one of my professors had worked behind the scenes on several movies I grew up admiring,” said La, a Hai Phong, Vietnam, native. “And the first time I experienced a hands-on teaching style, which was very different from what I was taught in Vietnam. And the first time I was challenged to learn new industry tools that have become essential in my career path.”

La received her undergraduate degree in economics from Foreign Trade University in Vietnam in 2023. There she discovered a passion for 3D computer graphics and decided studying in the United States was the next step.

“The Visualization program has a unique mixture of art and technology,” she said. “This aligns well with the way I approach my creative work.”

She is set to graduate Dec. 17 with a Master of Science in Visualization. La will also be honored as a distinguished student in the College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts’ Graduation Recognition Ceremony later in the day.

“I am grateful for this recognition and would not have received it without the support of the Viz faculty, my peers and my family,” La said. “I am also proud of the journey that brought me here, the resilience it required, and the opportunities I have been fortunate to receive.”

La’s most memorable experience in the program was completing an education abroad program in Antarctica, where she created her first art installation about the country’s landscape and wildlife. It was an opportunity to practice her skills in the field, she said.

“It was honestly something I could not do by myself,” La said, “without the support of the college and the program for this unique chance, and the tools they provided me to complete my installation.”

La credits two professors who played a pivotal role in her academic journey: Courtney Starrett, M.F.A., associate professor; and Mayet Andreassen, M.F.A., instructional associate professor.

“Professor Starrett taught me not only how to develop creative ideas, but how to grow as an artist,” La said. “Professor Andreassen guided me through the complexities of 3D animation, connecting me with the resources and technical direction I needed to move my capstone project forward.”

A 3D Modelling and Animation course led by Michael Walsh, M.F.A., associate professor of practice, was La’s favorite class. She said she learned how to re-create a commercial as a full 3D animation in under 30 seconds.

“These experiences have prepared me well for future professional opportunities in the field,” she said. “The program’s mix of artistic and technological training, along with the perspectives shared by outstanding faculty, strengthened my visual sensibilities and problem-solving skills.”

After graduation, La will work as a 3D digital twin research assistant in the Department of Animal Science at Texas A&M. She also plans to continue working with faculty on her Antarctica research. Her long-term goal is to pursue a Ph.D. and build a career that combines research, creativity and mentorship.

“Ultimately, I hope to become a professor who inspires students in the same way my professors have inspired me,” La said.