Welcome to the TMC interview! So — you’re originally from New Jersey and you recently graduated from UNCG. What attracted you to UNCG and the Greensboro area in the first place?
The biggest draw to UNCG and Greensboro was the diversity and what the area had to offer. I started college, like many people, without an idea of what I wanted to do. At UNCG, I had tons of different options for what I could study and focus on. I also loved that Greensboro gave me a small-town feel with great food options! Plus, I could easily escape to the mountains or the lake in order to fulfill my calling to the outdoors.
Tell us more about your experience at UNCG. What did you love most about going to school there?
I started studying Criminology because I wanted to become a federal agent but, after some consideration, I changed to Kinesiology in order to study something I enjoyed more. Ultimately, I landed with a business degree in economics.
At first, I felt lost as far as what to do and where to go. I even contemplated transferring. But I found UNCG’s Outdoor Adventures program and quickly found my place. Soon after I began working at the on-campus climbing wall and as a trip leader. This opened up the door to meet great people, travel to amazing locations and grow into my passion for photography. During my time at Outdoor Adventures, I was given the chance to photograph various events for rock climbing, backpacking, and other activities — now I get to use these skills every day!
Who is your biggest inspiration in life and how did they help shape you into the person you are today?
Without a doubt, my mother and father are my biggest inspirations. They have taught me everything I know and without their guidance, I would have never felt comfortable enough to pursue and follow my dreams to the extent I am now. They are both business owners and entrepreneurs at heart so to me they have most of the answers and if not they know where to send me. My drive and my work ethic have stemmed mainly from them and I thank them for how they prepared me for where I am today and for the future.
Who is on your playlist right now?
My playlists are all over the place! You can find John Legend, Lana Del Rey, St. Vincent, Emily King, Sam Smith, Hanz Zimmer, Tom Petty, Boston and so many others. What I enjoy listening to depends on what I’m doing and how I feel.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years I see myself living my dream! I’ve always been someone that’s drawn to the mountains so I see myself living near the mountains. Don’t know what mountain range yet, but rest assured I’ll have an amazing backyard. Aside from my dream location, I’ll be living with my best friend/significant other in our own paradise and exploring when possible!
What is your ultimate dream job? If you could make an impact doing anything, what would it be?
I have a ton of dreams/goals for my dream job, but there is one that always sticks with me. Ideally, I would love to use my creativity and expertise in photography in a few different forms. Primarily, I love portraiture from the 1920s-1950s and that is the style I currently use when photographing people. I would love to establish myself as a high-end classical photographer that helps people empower themselves through photography in today’s world there are so many people that have too many self-criticisms, much like myself when I was younger, and there is no greater feeling than seeing how differently you look at yourself once elegance, mood and atmosphere is added.
How do you spend your free time outside of Tigermoth?
If I am not backpacking, rock climbing or kayaking then you will probably find me at the Animal Park at the Conservators Center photographing my exotic and hilarious animal friends. There is nothing more peaceful than spending days in the wilderness and there is nothing more humbling than spending a day with amazing animals and witnessing their personalities.
What surprises you the most about Tigermoth?
The atmosphere — I love it! We are all work and play bundled up into one perfect package. Being able to witness and take part in developing creative ideas on how to tell different stories gives me a sense of purpose and meaning. I love the Tigermoth family and their willingness to educate and connect with you on a personal level and I cannot wait to grow with them!
Donald Komondy is a Marketing Coordinator at Tigermoth Creative. A New Jersey native, Don is a photographer, videographer and creative at heart. His dream is to pursue his love of photography while living in the beautiful mountains.