Crystal's parents encouraged creativity from an early age by enrolling her in community art classes and purchasing art supplies for her use. While in high school, she began studying with a private instructor and exhibiting art in juried shows. Crystal attended Michigan State University as the recipient of a Creative Arts Scholarship. While attending MSU, she explored many forms of visual art and took an active interest in art history. Crystal studied the Arts and Crafts Movement in Europe through a Coca-Cola Scholarship. She graduated with a BA in both Studio Art and Advertising. Crystal has been the recipient of several awards and scholarships, including the Marie Walsh Sharpe Art Foundation Summer Seminar Scholarship and the Sara Jane Venable Scholarship. She participated in the 2008 and 2009 Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festivals and has exhibited her work at Zella Brown, The University Club of Chicago, and the Black Walnut Gallery. Crystal is currently pursuing an MS in Human Computer Interaction at DePaul University.