To inspire the CSU's creative community, the
California State University Entertainment Alliance (CSUEA) held its first-ever
CSU MAX creative experience on April 10 at CSUN. Modeled after the Adobe MAX Creative Conference and sponsored in part by Adobe, CSU MAX offered a full-day of information sessions, hands-on activities and more to help students, faculty and staff engage with creative tools and explore AI use. The event had 960 registrants with representation from 21 CSU campuses.
“CSU MAX was an extraordinary, joyful celebration of creativity—bringing together nearly every CSU campus through the CSUEA in a shared, vibrant moment of connection and possibility," CSUEA Executive Director Christina Sibul said. “It was a day where access became action, and where students and faculty came together to create, collaborate and step fully into the creative economy."
Attendees benefited from a wide array of keynotes and sessions offered throughout the day that covered topics from effectively and responsibility using AI in creative pursuits to employing Adobe creative tools for brand design and other projects. A Fireside Chat on "AI and Pedagogy: Workflow and Real Results" drew a significant audience of CSU faculty to learn about incorporating AI into humanities and media education.
Students in particular gained valuable career support during the event. At the Creative Park, industry professionals were available to provide feedback on resumes. And, a team from the Adobe Certified Professional program provided opportunities for students to complete certification exams in Adobe products and earn industry-recognized professional credentials and digital badges that can be shared online and in resumes. While 101 individuals took certification exams during CSU MAX, about 80 more took the exams the following week or are still planning to do so. In addition, the Creator Showcase highlighted student thesis films that had been edited using Adobe Premiere.
Finally, a team from the
Adobe Creative Apprenticeship program gave a presentation on how the program can provide real-world training and work experience for aspiring designers, photographers and video professionals—and invited students to apply to up to 20 paid commission projects open only to CSU MAX attendees.
Participants in the apprenticeship program first complete a paid Adobe Commissions Project by working on a real freelance job for the company while receiving mentorship and professional guidance. Following the project, participants then gain access to exclusive apprenticeships and freelance opportunities with top creative employers through Adobe's Employer Partner Network, setting them up to launch a career.
Valued at $1,000 per project, the commission opportunity for CSU MAX attendees will focus on how students are using Adobe Firefly Boards to empower their communities to brainstorm ideas and explore their creativity. Students who receive a paid commission project will be notified by mid-May. Those not selected will still have access to other Adobe commission projects and learning content.
“Access to opportunity is often a barrier to entry for emerging creatives," said Grace Chau, Adobe head of Community Marketing, Creative Cloud. “By prioritizing commission projects for [CSU MAX] attendees, we aim to connect with students where they are—unlocking paid opportunities and mentorship that can help them build confidence, expand skills and networks, and help launch their creative career."
Learn more about the CSU Entertainment Alliance.