Michael Moeller, a 2001 graduate of Suffolk University’s New England School of Art & Design, is one of 12 finalists on the reality show HGTV Design Star, which began a new season on June 13.

Moeller, who owns a design business and was named the top 18 young designers in New York by Boutique Design magazine, squares off against other professional interior designers, contractors, stylists, architects and artists.

The competitors must impress the judges with creativity, and ingenuity to win the ultimate prize – a show on HGTV.

“It feels great to have an opportunity to showcase what I can do,” said Moeller. “I'm a very competitive person, and I'm going to give everything I have to succeed.”

Moeller credits his New England School of Art & Design education with providing him with the proper foundation to build upon his chosen career.

“It was the perfect school for me; small classes and personal attention” he said. “Many of the professors also worked in the field, and you learned so much. They helped shape me into the professional designer I am now.”

HGTV Design Star airs at 10 p.m. Sundays.