Growing up, I saw firsthand how a lack of access to creative resources can limit opportunities for self-expression, career exploration, and personal growth. Visual arts became my safe space, a way to process my thoughts, tell my story, and connect with others. I know that many young people in under-resourced communities don’t get that same chance—not because they lack talent or interest, but because they lack exposure, guidance, and materials. My goal is to change that by using my skills in visual arts to create pathways for creativity, confidence, and future opportunities. One of my main initiatives would be to organize free or low-cost art programs in community centers, schools, and libraries that may not have robust arts programs. These workshops would cover a range of mediums—painting, drawing, photography, and especially digital design—so that students can find the outlet that resonates most with them. I would bring in donated materials, partner with local businesses for sponsorships, and use online platforms to connect with professional artists willing to volunteer their time. In addition to technical skill-building, I want these programs to serve as mentorship opportunities. Many young people don’t see creative careers as realistic paths because they don’t know anyone who has succeeded in them. I would share my own experiences in graphic design, explain the range of career options in the visual arts, and bring in guest speakers—artists, designers, and photographers—who can talk about their journeys. Representation matters, and seeing someone from a similar background succeed can be the spark that inspires a young person to pursue their passion. I also plan to focus on using art as a tool for empowerment and storytelling. In under-resourced communities, young people often feel overlooked or unheard. Art allows them to reclaim their voices and tell their truths visually. I would encourage students to create works that reflect their personal stories, their neighborhoods, and their visions for the future. At the end of each program, we could host community art shows to celebrate their work, inviting family, friends, and local leaders. This not only builds confidence in the young artists but also fosters community pride. Beyond workshops, I want to provide ongoing resources. This could include creating an online portfolio platform where students can showcase their work, connecting them to local competitions and exhibitions, or helping them apply for scholarships and internships in the arts. My hope is to guide them beyond that initial spark of creativity toward sustainable growth and opportunities. Ultimately, giving back through the visual arts isn’t just about teaching someone how to draw or design—it’s about opening doors. It’s about showing youth that their creativity has value, their voices matter, and their dreams are possible. The visual arts changed my life by giving me confidence, direction, and a way to make my mark on the world. I want to ensure that the youth in under-resourced communities have the same chance to discover what art can do for them—not just as an activity, but as a lifelong tool for empowerment, connection, and change.

My name is Ian Whitaker, and I am a rising sophomore at Coppin State University, majoring in Journalism. I am honored to apply for the Wendy Alders Cartland Visual Arts Scholarship. As a Black man and someone who has lived in an under-resourced community, I understand firsthand the challenges that many young people face. I am passionate about using my skills in visual arts to give back to the youth in these communities. Growing up, I did not always have access to the resources that could help me explore my interests. Art supplies were often out of reach, and there were few programs that offered guidance in the visual arts. Despite these challenges, I found ways to express myself through drawing and painting. These activities were not just hobbies; they were vital outlets that helped me cope with the difficulties around me. They gave me a sense of purpose and a way to communicate my thoughts and feelings. I want to provide similar opportunities for young people who are in the same situation I was. I plan to use my education and skills to create art programs in under-resourced communities. These programs will not only teach technical skills but also encourage self-expression and confidence. By providing a safe space for creativity, I hope to inspire young people to explore their talents and believe in their potential. One way I plan to do this is by partnering with local schools and community centers to offer free art workshops. These workshops will be open to all young people, regardless of their skill level. I will focus on teaching basic techniques in drawing, painting, and digital art, as well as offering guidance on how to develop a personal style. By making these workshops accessible and inclusive, I hope to reach as many young people as possible. In addition to workshops, I want to create a mentorship program where college students and local artists can volunteer to mentor young people interested in the visual arts. This program will provide one-on-one support and guidance, helping young artists to set goals, develop their skills, and navigate the challenges they may face. Mentorship can make a huge difference in a young person's life, offering both practical advice and emotional support. I also plan to organize community art projects that bring people together to create public murals and other collaborative works. These projects will not only beautify our neighborhoods but also foster a sense of community pride and unity. By involving young people in these projects, I hope to show them the impact that their creativity can have on their surroundings. In conclusion, I am committed to using my skills in visual arts to give back to the youth in under-resourced communities. By offering workshops, mentorship, and community art projects, I aim to provide the support and opportunities that I did not always have. I believe that every young person deserves the chance to explore their creativity and realize their potential, and I am dedicated to making that a reality.

I just got into Sabrina Carpenter with her first song called "Nonsense." That song is my favorite because it’s all about love, and that’s what most of her songs are about. Additionally, it taught me expectations for myself when it comes to love. Sabrina Carpenter has made a big impact on my life through her music and the messages she conveys. Her ability to express the complexities of love and relationships has resonated deeply with me. Songs like "Nonsense" not only entertain but also provide a sense of understanding and reflection on what love should feel like and how it should be approached. Her lyrics are often filled with honesty and vulnerability, which has encouraged me to embrace my own feelings and experiences with love. Through her music, I've learned to set higher standards for my relationships and to recognize my own worth. Sabrina’s songs have been a source of comfort and empowerment, helping me navigate the ups and downs of love with more confidence and self-awareness. In addition to the lessons about love, Sabrina's journey as an artist has been inspiring. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with her audience on such a personal level have motivated me to pursue my passions with the same level of commitment and authenticity. She has shown that staying true to oneself and expressing genuine emotions can create a powerful impact on others. Overall, Sabrina Carpenter’s music has not only provided a soundtrack to my life but has also shaped my understanding and expectations of love. Her influence has been profound, and I’m grateful for the ways her songs have touched my heart and inspired my journey.

Hey there, I'm Ian Whitaker, and I'm about to kick off my college journey at Coppin State University! I'm super stoked because I'll be diving into Journalism, which has always been my passion. This scholarship means the world to me because it's gonna help me chase my dreams and make a positive impact on my community. I've always had this burning love for storytelling and the arts. Back in high school, I managed to keep up a solid 3.1 GPA while juggling my studies and exploring my artistic side. I've got a whole bunch of art pieces that I consider my portfolio, and I've even dipped my toes into dance and acting classes to explore different ways of expressing myself. Trust me, these experiences have taught me the importance of creativity and communication, and those skills are gonna be a game-changer in the world of journalism. Now, here's a fun fact about me: I've been working at Chick-Fil-A for over a year now, and it's been a major part of my personal journey. This job has taught me the true value of hard work, teamwork, and customer service. I've learned how to juggle my time like a pro and handle all sorts of responsibilities. Those skills are gonna come in handy as I dive into my degree and future career in journalism. When it comes to my strengths, I gotta say determination is my middle name. Once I set my mind on something, I go all in and give it my everything. But hey, I'm not perfect. I do have my weaknesses too. Sometimes, self-doubt and fear of failure creep in, but I'm working on building up my confidence and learning from my mistakes. I truly believe that overcoming these challenges will make me a stronger and more resilient person. My big dream is to become a journalist who tells stories that truly matter. I wanna shine a light on important issues and give a voice to those who often go unheard. I'm particularly jazzed about covering topics that revolve around social justice, culture, and the arts. Journalism has this incredible power to inspire change and bring people from all walks of life together. In the future, I can totally see myself rocking it at a top-notch news organization or even starting my own kick-ass media platform. I wanna use my skills to give back to my community and address the needs of the world. 'Cause let's be real, everyone's got a story to tell, and I wanna be the one who helps share those stories. This scholarship is gonna be a game-changer for me. It's gonna provide the financial support I need to chase my dreams. As a first-time college student, I know firsthand the challenges that come with pursuing a degree. This scholarship is gonna lighten the load and let me focus on my studies and personal growth. Plus, it'll open doors to internships and other experiences that'll take my skills to the next level and prepare me for a killer career in journalism.

If my year so far had a soundtrack, the song from "1989 (Taylor's Version)" that would be on it is "Clean." This song captures a sense of renewal and moving forward after overcoming significant challenges, which mirrors my experiences this year. The lyrics of "Clean" speak to the themes of resilience, growth, and the process of letting go of past struggles, all of which resonate deeply with the journey I've navigated over the past several months. "Clean" is a song about finding clarity and peace after a tumultuous period. The imagery Taylor Swift uses in the song, such as the rain washing away the remnants of a storm, metaphorically represents the process of healing and starting anew. This year, I have faced a variety of personal and professional challenges that felt overwhelming at times, much like the storm depicted in the song. However, just as the song suggests, there came a moment when I realized that I had weathered the storm and was emerging on the other side, stronger and more centered. One of the most compelling lines in "Clean" is, "The drought was the very worst, when the flowers that we'd grown together died of thirst." This line encapsulates the feeling of loss and the difficulty of enduring tough times. It reminds me of the periods this year when I felt like I was struggling to keep things afloat, whether in relationships, work, or personal goals. However, the subsequent lines, "When the rain came pouring down, when I was drowning, that's when I could finally breathe," reflect the relief and clarity that comes after persevering through hardships. In many ways, this year has been about finding my footing and rediscovering my inner strength. The process of becoming "clean" has involved shedding old habits, embracing new opportunities, and finding peace within myself. The song’s refrain, "I think I am finally clean," signifies a moment of triumph and the realization that I have grown from my experiences. Moreover, "Clean" isn't just about personal resilience; it’s also about the support systems that help us through tough times. This year, I have been fortunate to have friends and family who have stood by me, offering their support and encouragement. Their presence has been instrumental in my journey, much like the cleansing rain in the song that helps to wash away the past. In summary, "Clean" from "1989 (Taylor's Version)" perfectly encapsulates my year so far. It reflects a journey of overcoming challenges and finding clarity