Education is important to me because it represents opportunity, growth, and the chance to create a future that is different from the circumstances I grew up in. As a first-generation, low-income student, I have seen firsthand how hard my parents have worked to provide for me and my siblings. They did not always have access to higher education or the same opportunities I now have, but they still pushed me to do well in school and encouraged me to aim for college. Because of their sacrifices, I see education as something that carries both personal meaning and family responsibility. Growing up, I did not always understand the financial struggles my family faced, but as I got older, everything became clearer. I began to realize how much my parents gave up so that we could have stability. Watching their resilience taught me that education is not just about school, it is about perseverance, discipline, and pushing forward even when life is difficult. For me, education is also a path toward independence and self expression. As a Studio Art photography student, I want to use my education to develop my creative skills and turn my passion into a career. Photography allows me to tell stories, capture emotion, and highlight real human experiences. Through my education, I am learning not only technical skills, but also how to think critically, communicate ideas, and grow creatively. These are tools I need in order to succeed in both the fashion and music photography industries, which I hope to be part of in the future. Beyond personal success, I want my education to help me break cycles and create new opportunities for myself and my family. I want to reach a point where I can support myself financially doing something I am passionate about, while also making my parents proud of everything they sacrificed for me. Their hard work motivates me to take school seriously and to push myself even when things feel challenging. The legacy I hope to leave is one of resilience, creativity, and gratitude. I want to be remembered as someone who came from humble beginnings but used education to build a meaningful life and career. More importantly, I want to inspire others who come from similar backgrounds to believe that their circumstances do not define their future. Through my work as a photographer, I also hope to leave behind images that tell real stories, stories of emotion, culture, and human experience that connect people in a deeper way. Ultimately, education is important to me because it is the foundation for everything I hope to become. It is not just a personal achievement, it is a bridge between my past, my present, and the future I am working hard to create.

My personal experiences growing up in a low-income, first-generation family have deeply shaped my sense of purpose. As a child, I did not fully understand the financial struggles my parents faced, but as I grew older, I began to recognize the sacrifices they made to provide for me and my siblings. Simple memories, like eating McDonald’s from the dollar menu or my mom carefully saving Coca-Cola cans for Six Flags tickets, now mean much more to me. They represent the effort my parents made to give us happiness even when resources were limited. Experiences like losing our apartment in a fire and having to live with my aunt and cousins also taught me resilience and adaptability. Even during unstable times, my parents worked tirelessly to rebuild a stable life for us. Watching my mom work multiple jobs while still prioritizing our well-being showed me strength, sacrifice, and unconditional love in ways I didn’t understand as a child. Because of these experiences, I’ve developed a strong sense of gratitude and awareness of how hard people work behind the scenes to care for others. My purpose is rooted in making my parents proud and using the opportunities they worked so hard to give me. As a Studio Art photography student, I also want to use my creativity to tell real, emotional stories that reflect resilience, family, and lived experience. My background has taught me that purpose is not just about personal success, but about honoring the people and experiences that shaped me.

Going to college means a lot more to me than simply continuing my education. It represents an opportunity to change my future, build independence, and honor the sacrifices my family has made for me. As a low-income, first-generation student, I understand that college is not just a personal goal, it is something my family has worked toward through me. My parents have always pushed me to do well in school and to aim for college, not because they had the same opportunities, but because they want me to achieve what they were not able to. Because of that, I see college as something I am doing for myself, but also for them. Growing up, I watched my parents work hard and make sacrifices so I could have better opportunities. Even when things were difficult financially, they always encouraged me to focus on my education and believed that it could open doors for me in the future. Their support has shaped the way I see success. It is not just about personal achievement, but about creating something better for the people who supported me from the beginning. For me, college is also a place where I can grow into my own identity and discover my purpose. I have always been passionate about photography, especially fashion and music photography. I want to capture emotion, style, and real human experiences through my work. College gives me the space to develop those skills, learn technical and creative techniques, and explore different perspectives that will help me grow as an artist. It is a chance for me to take something I love and turn it into a real career path. At the same time, I am trying to accomplish independence and stability through college. I want to build a future where I can support myself financially by doing something I am passionate about. I know that becoming a photographer requires hard work, consistency, and real world experience, so I plan to take advantage of every opportunity I can, whether that is through classes, creative projects, collaborations, or internships. I want to use college not just as a place to learn, but as a foundation to build my career. Most importantly, I want to make my parents proud. Everything I am doing is connected to the support they have given me and the sacrifices they have made. I want them to see that their hard work was not in vain and that it helped create opportunities I can now pursue. At the same time, I want to prove to myself that I am capable of reaching my goals, even when the path is not always easy. Overall, college means growth, opportunity, and responsibility. It is where I will work toward becoming a professional photographer, while also honoring my family’s support and sacrifices. I am not only building my future, I am building a future that reflects both my dreams and everything my family has done to help me reach this point.

Olivia Rodrigo’s music often captures the emotional confusion that comes with heartbreak, feelings of hurt, disappointment, reflection, and eventually growth. While I don’t relate to every detail of her songs, I deeply connect with the way she expresses how relationships can change how you see yourself and others. Her music reflects the idea that heartbreak is not just about losing someone, but also about learning who you are in the process. In my own life, I have experienced situations where someone I cared about did not treat me the way I expected or deserved. At first, I focused mostly on the pain and confusion of it all while trying to understand what went wrong and what I did differently. It felt overwhelming because I was trying to make sense of someone else’s actions while also questioning my own worth. During that time, music became something I could relate to emotionally because it helped me feel less alone in what I was going through. Over time, though, I began to understand the experience in a deeper way. Instead of only seeing the situation through my own hurt, I started to reflect on why people act the way they do. I realized that sometimes people are dealing with their own insecurities, immaturity, or personal struggles that influence how they treat others. This shift in perspective did not excuse the way I was treated, but it helped me understand that people are often shaped by their own experiences, just like I am. That realization became an important part of my personal growth. I learned that heartbreak can actually teach empathy if you allow yourself to reflect instead of only reacting emotionally. I became more understanding toward others, even in situations where I felt hurt, because I started recognizing that everyone is carrying something you cannot always see on the surface. This has helped me become more patient, less quick to judge, and more aware of the emotional complexity behind people’s actions. At the same time, I also learned more about myself, my boundaries, my values, and what I need in relationships. I began to understand that it is important to care deeply about people while also protecting my own emotional well-being. That balance was not something I understood before going through heartbreak, but it has shaped how I approach friendships and relationships now. Overall, this experience taught me that pain can lead to growth if you allow yourself to learn from it. What once felt like confusion and heartbreak has become a lesson in self-awareness and empathy. It helped me grow into someone who not only understands my own emotions better, but also tries to understand the emotions and motivations of others. In that way, I have become more compassionate, more reflective, and more grounded in who I am becoming.

I would describe selflessness as something I try to practice in small, everyday ways rather than big, dramatic moments. For me, it’s about noticing when someone needs help, support, or even just encouragement, and choosing to show up for them even if I’m tired or dealing with my own stress. I’ve learned that being selfless doesn’t mean ignoring yourself, it means caring about others in a genuine way while still doing your best to manage your own responsibilities. One example of this is in school group work. I’ve had situations where I could tell other people in my group were overwhelmed or didn’t really understand what we were doing. Instead of just focusing on my part and staying quiet, I would step in and help explain things or organize the work so it felt more manageable for everyone. Sometimes I would end up doing a little more than my share, but I didn’t really mind because I knew it helped the group stay on track and reduced stress for everyone. I’ve realized I naturally take on that role of making sure things don’t fall apart when people feel lost. I also think a lot of my selflessness comes from being a first-generation student and growing up in a low-income household. I’ve learned to be aware of other people’s struggles because I’ve seen them in my own life and in my family. There have been times where I’ve helped at home even when I had schoolwork, whether it was running errands, helping with tasks, or just being available when things were stressful. I don’t see it as something extra. I see it as doing what needs to be done to support the people around me. With my friends, I also try to be someone they can rely on emotionally. If someone is stressed, upset, or doubting themselves, I try to listen without judging them or making them feel like they’re being “too much.” I’ve stayed after class to help classmates understand assignments, shared notes when someone missed something important, and encouraged people when they felt like giving up. These moments might seem small, but I think they matter because they can really change how someone feels in that moment. Even through photography, I’ve noticed myself being selfless in creative spaces. When I’m helping friends or classmates with shoots, I focus more on their vision than trying to make everything about my own style. I like helping people feel confident in front of the camera or bringing their ideas to life, even if I’m not getting anything back from it. It honestly makes me feel good knowing I contributed to someone else’s moment or project in a meaningful way. Overall, selflessness for me is about being present, being helpful, and caring about people in real ways. It’s not about being perfect or always putting others before myself, but about choosing kindness and support when I can. That’s something I try to carry with me in school, at home, and in everything I create.

My long-term goal is to become a professional photographer specializing in fashion and music photography. I want to create images that tell stories, highlight identity, and capture emotion in both editorial fashion shoots and live music environments. My vision is to work with artists, brands, and creative teams to produce visuals that feel authentic, expressive, and culturally meaningful. In order to reach this goal, I am approaching my education and early career as a structured path that combines skill development, networking, and real-world experience. My first step is building a strong technical and creative foundation during my time in college as a Studio Art (Photography) major. I plan to fully utilize my coursework in visual culture, art history, fashion studies, and music-related classes to strengthen my understanding of composition, lighting, and cultural context. These courses will help me develop a critical eye and allow me to understand how visual storytelling functions across fashion and music industries. I also plan to take advantage of studio courses and critiques to improve my technical photography skills and receive feedback that will push my creative growth. Outside of the classroom, I plan to actively build a photography portfolio throughout college. This will include personal projects, student collaborations, fashion-inspired editorial shoots, and concert photography. I will begin by photographing student musicians, local events, and campus fashion projects to gain real experience. My goal is to consistently produce new work each semester so that by graduation, I have a strong, professional portfolio that reflects my style and versatility. In terms of resources, I will rely on university equipment such as cameras, lighting kits, and editing software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, which are essential for professional photography. I also plan to invest in my own equipment over time, starting with a reliable camera body, a 50mm lens for portraits, and later expanding into lenses suitable for concert and editorial work. I estimate an initial personal equipment budget of approximately $1,500–$2,500, with additional costs added gradually as I earn income from freelance work. To support this, I plan to seek student jobs, freelance photography opportunities, and potential internships within creative departments or media organizations. Networking will also be a key part of my plan. I intend to connect with student organizations, fashion clubs, music groups, and local creative communities to collaborate on projects. Building relationships with artists, stylists, and musicians will help me gain consistent opportunities for shoots and allow me to grow within creative circles. I also plan to use social media platforms like Instagram and a personal portfolio website to showcase my work and attract clients. After graduation, my goal is to work as a freelance or studio photographer while continuing to build my brand in fashion and music photography. I understand that success in this field requires persistence, flexibility, and consistent self-investment. By combining education, hands-on experience, networking, and gradual financial planning, I believe I can build a sustainable career in photography that aligns with my passion and long-term vision. Ultimately, my plan is not only to become a photographer but to develop a creative career that allows me to tell meaningful stories through images while growing financially independent and professionally established.

From a young age, my faith in God has been a steady presence in my life, especially as a first-generation college student from a low-income background. Growing up, I often felt pressure to figure everything out on my own and to succeed without fully knowing the path ahead. During those times, my faith became something I could lean on when I felt uncertain or overwhelmed. It reminded me that I am not alone in my journey and that my life has purpose even when I cannot clearly see the outcome. Instead of allowing stress or doubt to stop me, my faith has helped me stay grounded, patient, and hopeful. There have been moments in my life where things did not go the way I expected, whether academically, personally, or emotionally. In those moments, my faith has helped me reframe challenges as opportunities for growth rather than failure. It has taught me that setbacks do not define me and that I can keep moving forward even when progress feels slow. This mindset has been especially important as I have worked toward pursuing my passion in art and photography, a field where confidence and persistence are essential. My faith has also shaped the way I see creativity and purpose. As someone studying Studio Art with a focus in photography, I view my work as more than just taking images, it is a way of expressing emotion, telling stories, and capturing moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. My faith encourages me to approach my creativity with intention and authenticity. Rather than focusing only on perfection or comparison, I am reminded to create work that is meaningful and honest. I want my photography to reflect real experiences, whether in fashion, music, or everyday life, and to connect with people on a deeper level. In addition, my faith has influenced the way I interact with others and how I view success. It has taught me humility, gratitude, and the importance of staying true to myself even in environments that can feel competitive. In creative industries like fashion and music photography, it can be easy to compare yourself to others or feel pressure to constantly prove your worth. My faith helps me stay centered and confident in my own journey, trusting that my path is unfolding in its own time. Looking ahead, I believe my faith will continue to guide me throughout my career. It will help me stay resilient during challenges, remain authentic in my creative voice, and pursue opportunities with purpose rather than fear. Ultimately, my faith is not just something I practice, it is something that shapes how I see the world, how I create art, and how I hope to impact others through my work. I want my photography to inspire people, highlight beauty in everyday moments, and tell stories that feel real and meaningful.

I plan to use my art not only as a creative passion, but as a way to build a future that I have worked toward my entire life. As a first-generation, low-income student, I have learned to think about my dreams in a very real and practical way. Nothing has been handed to me, and everything I pursue has come from persistence, curiosity, and the belief that my creativity can become something more than just a hobby. I have been passionate about art since I was young, even before I fully understood what it could become for me. Photography, in particular, became my way of seeing and understanding the world. It allowed me to capture emotions and moments that often go unnoticed. Over time, it stopped being just something I enjoyed and became something I needed a way to express myself, observe life more deeply, and hold onto moments that feel fleeting. Now, I see Studio Art as more than just passion. I see it as a path toward stability, independence, and opportunity. I plan to develop my photography into a career where I can support myself financially while still doing something meaningful. I want to build a strong portfolio and eventually work with clients, brands, or creative projects that value authentic storytelling. Whether it is portrait photography, documentary work, or freelance creative projects, I want my art to grow into something that can sustain me and help me build the life I have always dreamed of. Coming from a background where resources were limited has shaped the way I approach my goals. I understand that success in a creative field takes both talent and discipline. Because of that, I am motivated not only to improve my artistic skills, but also to learn the business side of photography and how to market my work, find opportunities, and turn my passion into a stable source of income. For me, this is not just about creativity; it is about creating a future where I can support myself and eventually give back to the people who have supported me along the way. More than anything, I want my art to continue having emotional meaning. I have always been drawn to capturing raw, honest moments in images that feel real and human. There is something powerful about showing someone a version of themselves they may not always see, one that reflects their strength, emotion, and individuality. I want to keep doing that, not just as an artist, but as someone who understands what it means to work hard for every opportunity. In the future, I hope my art allows me to build a life where I am both stable and fulfilled. Studio Art is not just my passion, it is my path forward, my way of turning creativity into opportunity, and my way of finally building the future I have always dreamed of for myself.

I chose Studio Art because I’ve always been drawn to moments that don’t last. Long before I had the language to explain it, I found myself noticing things other people would walk past and glance between two people, laughter that fades too quickly, the quiet in someone’s face when they think no one is looking. Photography became the way I learned to hold onto those moments. What led me to this art form wasn’t a single decision, but a feeling that kept returning: I didn’t want moments to disappear without being seen. When I first started taking photos, it was simple curiosity. I liked how images looked, how they could be framed and edited. But over time, it became something much deeper. I realized I wasn’t just taking pictures, I was trying to understand people. I was trying to preserve emotions exactly as they existed, without changing them or letting them fade. There is something powerful about freezing time. Life moves too quickly to remember everything, but a photograph forces you to pause. It holds onto what the mind forgets. I’ve captured moments where someone’s expression tells a whole story without a single word. A photo can carry joy, uncertainty, confidence, or sadness in a way that feels almost too real to explain. That is what makes Studio Art feel alive to me, it is not about creating perfection, but about revealing truth. My involvement in photography has changed the way I experience life. I notice things I used to miss. Light hitting a wall at the right angle. The way people soften when they feel comfortable. The small in between moments that don’t seem important until you realize they never happen the same way again. It has taught me patience, because the best moments cannot be forced. They happen when I am paying attention, not when I am rushing. It has also impacted me personally by giving me a way to connect with others. When I take photos of people, I am often trusted with how they see themselves. There is something meaningful about showing someone a version of themselves they may not have noticed before. One that feels real, natural, and human. That responsibility has made me more confident, but also more aware of how much emotion can exist inside a single frame. Studio Art is not just something I do, it is how I understand the world. It reminds me that even ordinary moments can carry weight, and that beauty often exists in things that are fleeting. Photography has taught me that nothing lasts forever, but some things are worth holding onto anyway.

Music has always been more than just something I listen to. It has been a way for me to cope, to feel understood, and sometimes just to escape when everything feels too overwhelming. That is a big part of why I connect so much with Sabrina Carpenter. Her music feels honest and emotional in a way that is hard to explain unless you have really needed it. There have been times in my life where my mental health made everything feel heavy, like I was stuck in my own thoughts with no way out. In those moments, music became my safe place. Listening to Sabrina Carpenter helped me put words to feelings I did not always know how to express. Whether it was heartbreak, confusion, or just feeling lost, her songs made me feel less alone. It felt like someone understood me without me having to say anything. What I admire most about her is how real she is in her music. She talks about things people do not always say out loud, and that gave me comfort during times when I felt like I had to keep everything inside. Her music became a form of escape for me, but also a way to process what I was going through instead of ignoring it. Being a fan of Sabrina Carpenter is not just about liking her songs. It is about what her music has done for me. It has helped me get through difficult moments, understand my emotions, and find a sense of peace when I needed it most. It reminded me that even when things feel overwhelming, I am not alone, and there is always a way to keep going.

I’ve always been drawn to stories that don’t just show you what’s good or bad, but make you question why we label people that way in the first place. That’s why Wicked has stuck with me so deeply. It’s more than just a story about witches, it’s about being misunderstood, judged, and learning how to stand in your truth even when the world paints you as something you’re not. Growing up, I’ve had moments where I felt out of place or misunderstood, especially dealing with personal challenges and trying to figure out who I am. Watching Elphaba’s journey made me feel seen in a way I didn’t expect. She isn’t perfect, and she isn’t always accepted, but she stays true to herself. That idea of you don’t have to shrink yourself to be accepted, has really impacted me. It reminded me that being different isn’t something to hide, it’s something to embrace. What also stands out to me is the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda. It’s complicated, real, and sometimes painful, but it shows how people can grow and change each other. It made me reflect on my own relationships and how even difficult experiences with others can shape who I become. Being a fan of Wicked isn’t just about loving a movie or musical, it’s about connecting to its message. It’s helped me understand that there’s always more to someone’s story than what we see on the surface. As someone who hopes to continue growing, creating, and telling stories of my own, Wicked inspires me to stay authentic, to challenge assumptions, and to never be afraid of who I am, even when it feels like the harder path.

I’ve struggled with my mental health since I was 12, which is around the time everything in life starts to change. Middle school is when you’re figuring out who you are, but for me, it was also when I was first exposed to how serious mental health could be. One moment that has stayed with me was when my best friend at the time tried to end her life. She sent me photos of herself hurting herself and blamed me, saying it was because she wanted me to choose her over someone else. I was only 12, and I remember feeling terrified and confused. When I went to my mom for help, she told me it was my fault and that I should only have one best friend. That moment stuck with me, and I remember crying to my older sister because I didn’t know how to process any of it. At 14, things got difficult again, but this time it was my own experience. I ended a friendship that wasn’t healthy for me. I lost almost all of my friends. They chose her over me, and I felt completely alone. That was when I first started harming myself. It came from a place of feeling like I had no control and no one to turn to. Eventually, I found new people who made me feel better about myself, and for a while, I was doing okay. But when I was 17, I went through another turning point. I found out my boyfriend of almost a year had cheated on me right before my senior year. That situation left me with so many unanswered questions and a lot of pain. I was so used to having him in my life every day that I didn’t know how to function without him. Instead of dealing with it in a healthy way, I tried to distract myself by going out, talking to other people, and picking up habits that only made things worse. During that time, I felt extremely alone. My friendships were strained, my family was disappointed in me, and I kept going back to someone who hurt me. I remember one night feeling so overwhelmed that I was on the verge of ending my life. I reached out to my ex but he was out partying. That moment made me feel even more alone. I couldn’t go through with it, but I relapsed and it was worse than before. That period of my life is something I still carry with me, both emotionally and physically. Even though I was struggling, that experience changed me. It made me realize how important it is to have support, but also how hard it can be to ask for help. My parents offered therapy, but I wasn’t ready at the time because I wasn’t comfortable opening up. Now, I’m in a much better place. I’ve grown from everything I went through, and I’ve learned how important it is to choose myself . I’m no longer in that relationship, and I’ve worked hard to break those unhealthy patterns. I’m proud to say that I am clean from harming myself, and for the first time in a long time, I feel at peace. My experiences with mental health have shaped my relationships by teaching me the importance of boundaries and surrounding myself with people who genuinely support me. They’ve shaped my goals by making me want a future where I am stable, happy, and able to help others who may feel the way I once did. Most importantly, they’ve changed how I see the world. I’ve learned that you never truly know what someone is going through, and because of that, I try to lead with empathy and understanding. Although my journey hasn’t been easy, it has made me stronger, more self aware of others, and gives me motivation to have a better future for myself.

My challenge is called “The Rewind Room,” and it would have both the islanders and the audience going crazy. In this challenge, each person gets called into a private room without their partner knowing. Once they’re inside, they’re shown three clips. One real moment from their relationship, one clip of their partner doing something they haven’t seen yet, and one clip that’s edited to be misleading. The twist is that they don’t know which one is real and which one isn’t. After watching, they have to make a decision. They can either stay loyal and trust their partner, or they can “rewind” a moment. With rewinding they are choosing to redo something from earlier, like flirting with someone else, pulling someone for a chat, or even a kiss. The crazy part is that if they choose to rewind, their partner will never know it happened, but the audience will see both versions. While this is happening, their partner is also being tested. They’re given the chance to go on a date with a new bombshell, but they’re shown a short clip that makes it look like their partner might be moving on. This puts them in a position where they have to decide if they trust their relationship or act on what they think is happening. At the end, everyone comes back together for a big reveal at the fire pit. The host shows what was real, what was fake, and who chose to rewind their actions. This would cause so much tension because some people might look completely loyal, but the truth is way messier. I think this challenge would stand out because it’s not just about drama, it’s about trust, perception, and how people react when they don’t have the full story. It would definitely be one of those moments everyone talks about after the episode ends.

This piece I am most proud of because I think it tells a story to different individuals. One of the reasons why I am so passionate about what art I make, is because I enjoy how everyone can interpret the art into their own personal experiences. This photograph was inspired by my desire to express the emotional depth of grief, specifically focusing on depression. I have always been drawn to art that communicates feelings that are difficult to put into words, and I wanted to capture what depression can feel like from the inside. I did a survey to students at my school asking if they had experienced grief, and when I asked them about depression they used words to describe it as, alone, drained, hopelessness. Instead of just showing sadness in an obvious way, I aimed to represent the weight of isolation and the quiet struggle that most people tend to carry with themselves in private. So I took their experiences and input and had it go with my work. My inspiration came from both personal experiences and observing others around me. Over the years I have come to realize that not all pain is visible. Depression specifically can feel like suffocation with being trapped in your own thoughts, like there's no way out. In this image the idea of water was something that was drawn to me because I believe it symbolizes both life and drowning at the same time. I wanted the water to represent emotions that are showing pouring down, creating a sense of tension between your thoughts and reality. The setting was also intentional because a shower is often seen as a private area where most people can be vulnerable. I had mascara running down the subject's face, to show the emotion within this piece. By placing the subject in this environment, I wanted to highlight how depression often occurs in silence and away from others. I had the subject slightly tilt their head as the water hit their face with their eyes closed, suggesting a sense of exhaustion. It leaves the viewer questioned whether or not they are trying to escape or simply let go. The lighting and color also played a major role in shaping the mood of this piece. I wanted to have a darker tone and include cool green and blue hues to create a dull and eerie atmosphere. I wanted this image to feel heavy towards the viewer and have them be able to relate to the photograph in their own way. I had the area around the subject blurred outwards to emphasize this idea to represent how depression can often make others feel like they are on their own with making the world around them seem distant. The reason why I created this piece was because I am aware that many people experience depression but struggle to express their feelings. I want this photograph to be able to do that. Through this photograph, I hope to create a sense of connection and maybe even comfort, by reminding people that they aren't alone. Everyone has or will experience grief in their lifetime, that is something that we all share in common at the end of the day.

This piece I am most proud of because I think it tells a story to different individuals. One of the reasons why I am so passionate about what art I make, is because I enjoy how everyone can interpret the art into their own personal experiences. This photograph was inspired by my desire to express the emotional depth of grief, specifically focusing on depression. I have always been drawn to art that communicates feelings that are difficult to put into words, and I wanted to capture what depression can feel like from the inside. I did a survey to students at my school asking if they had experienced grief, and when I asked them about depression they used words to describe it as, alone, drained, hopelessness. Instead of just showing sadness in an obvious way, I aimed to represent the weight of isolation and the quiet struggle that most people tend to carry with themselves in private. So I took their experiences and input and had it go with my work. My inspiration came from both personal experiences and observing others around me. Over the years I have come to realize that not all pain is visible. Depression specifically can feel like suffocation with being trapped in your own thoughts, like there's no way out. In this image the idea of water was something that was drawn to me because I believe it symbolizes both life and drowning at the same time. I wanted the water to represent emotions that are showing pouring down, creating a sense of tension between your thoughts and reality. The setting was also intentional because a shower is often seen as a private area where most people can be vulnerable. I had mascara running down the subject's face, to show the emotion within this piece. By placing the subject in this environment, I wanted to highlight how depression often occurs in silence and away from others. I had the subject slightly tilt their head as the water hit their face with their eyes closed, suggesting a sense of exhaustion. It leaves the viewer questioned whether or not they are trying to escape or simply let go. The lighting and color also played a major role in shaping the mood of this piece. I wanted to have a darker tone and include cool green and blue hues to create a dull and eerie atmosphere. I wanted this image to feel heavy towards the viewer and have them be able to relate to the photograph in their own way. I had the area around the subject blurred outwards to emphasize this idea to represent how depression can often make others feel like they are on their own with making the world around them seem distant. The reason why I created this piece was because I am aware that many people experience depression but struggle to express their feelings. I want this photograph to be able to do that. Through this photograph, I hope to create a sense of connection and maybe even comfort, by reminding people that they aren't alone. Everyone has or will experience grief in their lifetime, that is something that we all share in common at the end of the day.

Art has always been a part of my life. Growing up in a low-income family as a first-generation student, I did not always have access to many opportunities, but art was something my parents always encouraged. When I was younger, my parents bought me an easel and art supplies, and I spent hours drawing and just creating new art everyday. Even though we did not have much, those small moments helped me realize how important art was to me. Since I was little I always knew that creating something meaningful was something I wanted to continue doing in my life. My interest in photography began in eighth grade when I first learned about concert and fashion photography. I was so drawn to how photographers could capture energy, emotion, and movement in a single image. Concert photography especially caught my attention because of the way you can capture the most adrenaline moments, when the crowds feel it the most. I enjoy music and photography so much, and the idea of doing that as a career is something I’m very passionate about. Fashion photography also inspired me because of how creative it can be through styling, lighting, and emotions. Seeing those types of images made me realize that photography was more than just taking pictures, it is a form of art that could communicate a powerful message. As I continued learning and practicing photography over the years, my passion for it grew stronger. Eventually I started taking photos of people professionally, and that experience completely changed the way I viewed photography. I realized that what I loved most about it was the ability to capture a frame in time. A photograph can freeze a moment that would otherwise pass quickly. Whether it is someone laughing, feeling confident, or simply being themselves, those genuine emotions are what make photography meaningful to me. What I enjoy most is capturing raw and authentic emotion. When I photograph people, I try to create an environment where they feel comfortable enough to express themselves naturally. Those unscripted moments often turn into the most meaningful images. When I look back at the photos afterward, I am reminded that photography is not just about getting the right angles with lighting or exposure. It is about connection, storytelling, and capturing moments that might otherwise be forgotten. The artistic process itself is something that makes me feel focused and inspired. When I am behind the camera, I become more aware of the details around me that are often overlooked. Photography allows me to slow down and observe the world more carefully. It also gives me a sense of purpose because I know the images I create can mean something to the people in them. Studying fine art and studio art would allow me to continue developing my skills while also exploring new creative possibilities. I want to learn more about visual storytelling, artistic techniques, and how different forms of art influence photography. Being surrounded by other artists would motivate me to push my creativity further and refine my perspective as a photographer. Photography is not just a passion for me, it is a way of capturing stories and emotions that deserve to be remembered. Through art, I hope to continue documenting meaningful moments and sharing perspectives that connect people with one another.

Art has always been a part of my life. Growing up in a low-income family as a first-generation student, I did not always have access to many opportunities, but art was something my parents always encouraged. When I was younger, my parents bought me an easel and art supplies, and I spent hours drawing and just creating new art everyday. Even though we did not have much, those small moments helped me realize how important art was to me. Since I was little I always knew that creating something meaningful was something I wanted to continue doing in my life. My interest in photography began in eighth grade when I first learned about concert photography. I was drawn to how photographers could capture energy, emotion, and movement in an image. Concert photography especially caught my attention because of the way you can capture the moment when the crowds feel it the most. I enjoy music and photography so much, and the idea of doing that as a career is something I’m very passionate about. As I continued learning and practicing photography over the years, my passion for it grew stronger. Eventually I started taking photos of people professionally, and that experience completely changed the way I viewed photography. I realized that what I loved most about it was the ability to capture a frame in time. A photograph can freeze a moment that would otherwise pass quickly. Whether it is someone laughing, feeling confident, or simply being themselves, those genuine emotions are what make photography meaningful to me. What I enjoy most is capturing raw and authentic emotion. When I photograph people, I try to create an environment where they feel comfortable enough to express themselves naturally. Those unscripted moments often turn into the most meaningful images. When I look back at the photos afterward, I am reminded that photography is not just about getting the right angles with lighting or exposure. It is about connection, storytelling, and capturing moments that might otherwise be forgotten. The artistic process itself is something that makes me feel focused and inspired. When I am behind the camera, I become more aware of the details around me that are often overlooked. Photography allows me to slow down and observe the world more carefully. It also gives me a sense of purpose because I know the images I create can mean something to the people in them. Studying fine art and studio art would allow me to continue developing my skills while also exploring new creative possibilities. I want to learn more about visual storytelling, artistic techniques, and how different forms of art influence photography. Being surrounded by other artists would motivate me to push my creativity further and refine my perspective as a photographer. Photography is not just a passion for me, it is a way of capturing stories and emotions that deserve to be remembered. Through art, I hope to continue documenting meaningful moments and sharing perspectives that connect people with one another.

Growing up in a low-income household as a first-generation student, I learnt early on that challenges were a part of life. However, one of my most personal struggles I faced was living with alopecia, a condition that causes hair loss. At a young age, it made me feel different from others and sometimes insecure about my appearance. The kids I grew up with always made sure to remind me I was different from everyone else. Never feeling pretty was something I struggled with throughout my childhood. I’d say I was a strong kid mentally growing up. I got used to being perceived differently from others. I learnt to be more comfortable with myself. I realized to appreciate things about myself that others couldn’t. Although I was not raised in a particularly religious household, my personal values such as resilience, self-acceptance, and determination, became the foundation that helped me overcome these difficult moments. I never saw a problem with the way I looked until kids around me did. They would call me names, and ask if I was a boy or had cancer. I always got told to brush off those comments, and how others don’t understand because they are just kids, but so was I. People don’t understand how a few words can affect someone’s perception of life. Being so young, you get words thrown at you receptively and to start believing them. I think that if people took time to know my younger self, they wouldn’t only notice my bald spots that covered my head. I’ll always carry that part of myself always and how others made me feel so isolated. It’s a reminder of how far I’ve come as a person. My parents had a huge impact on how I was able to get through this difficult time during my childhood. They always reminded me how my strength, confidence and how my appearance didn’t matter, it was my heart that did. Living with alopecia taught me that strength often comes from the challenges we do not choose. It pushed me to develop confidence, resilience, and determination, qualities that will guide me as I pursue higher education as a first-generation college student. My experiences have shaped my goals for the future, reminding me that obstacles do not define who we are, and how we overcome them matters the most. This scholarship would mean a lot to me and anything that I can get will help a significant amount financially.

One of the first memorable gifts I ever received as a child was an easel. On the side of it was a container that held colorful crayons. I used that easel every day because it was a way of expressing my emotions. I would look at other people’s work and admire it because that is when it hit me that everyone has a different story. Every art work has a different meaning, and it is not just one. Every person views art work differently. My parents and I knew I always wanted to pursue a future within the arts industry. Whether it was painting, drawing, photography, fashion, anything you can think of. I have always been creative and open to trying new things. It is hard for me to think of a future not involving arts. That’s all I’ve ever been known to want to do. I was in my freshman year of high school when I realized that I wanted to specifically focus on photography. I took a photography class and had a teacher with a unique personality. Mr.Jensen was his name, and although he was not the most organized or put together teacher. He knew how to open up students mind and let us create. He showed us his photographs he took a couple years before he got his job, and I was immediately drawn to his work. There was portraits displayed of all kinds of people. Different genders, ethnicity, and characteristics were shown. What stood out the most was the facial expressions. Each person had presented different emotions. It amazed me looking at all the photographs lined up next to eachother. He had us sit in silence and look at the work for around five minutes. He then asked each student in the class to make up a story of the photographs. Hearing everyone’s stories was beautiful as there was not a single one that was similar to each others. They were all different, and including the meanings. That is when I realized that art can be portrayed in many ways. The true meaning of art is not about the looks. It is all about the emotions you get out of it. The way a painting of and ice cream cone, can take you back to the memory of you at the zoo on a hot sunny day. The thought of a photograph taken of a couple by the shore, could make you remember the relationship you once had. Every art has a meaning to it. If you take only take time to acknowledge the appearance, you could miss it.