Art has always been my way of asking questions, exploring meaning, and making sense of the world. My motivation is rooted in curiosity, a desire to understand the strange and beautiful aspects of human experience, and a need to leave something meaningful behind. What drives me to continue is the belief that art remains one of the most powerful ways we can understand ourselves and connect with others. Despite the rise of new technologies, I have always felt drawn to the act of traditional painting. Painting has existed across centuries and cultures, and many of the most recognized works in art history come from this medium. People still paint today because there is something deeply human about the connection between the hand, the eye, and the mind. As technology evolves, it can sometimes feel like a threat to authentic expression. The line between real and artificial creation is becoming harder to see. Everything now seems to chase "aesthetic" value, but much of it feels hollow. When people say things like "AI could make that faster," they often miss the point. Yes, AI can mimic certain artistic styles, but without the thought, emotion, or intention behind them. There is a difference between generating content and creating art. Still, I do not believe that technology itself is the problem. Like any tool, its value depends on who is using it and why. These advancements can be used to enhance storytelling, but the core of meaningful work will always come from the human mind. The intention behind the work—its message, its feeling, its voice—is what gives it life. That is what I aim to protect and carry forward in everything I make. As a student, I am using this time to refine my artistic voice and develop the technical skills to express it. I study painting, sculpture, and mixed media, while also learning how digital tools can expand the way I tell stories. I believe the future of visual art is interdisciplinary, where physical and digital methods combine to create layered, immersive experiences. I want to be able to work across those boundaries, to keep traditional craft alive while embracing new methods with purpose. At the center of my work is an interest in the inner workings of the human mind.In a world that feels increasingly digital and outward-facing, I find myself more drawn to internal experiences such as memories, dreams, and the constant stream of thoughts that move through my mind. I believe these personal moments deserve space in a world that often overlooks them. My love for working with my hands is what brought me to art in the first place. The process of observation, turning ideas into form, and physically making something connects me to both my body and my mind. My current project explores this idea. I have been recording my dreams every night and translating them into small paintings and mixed media pieces. These works take the form of postcards from places that do not exist—fragments of imaginary worlds drawn from the subconscious. I am excited to see where this exploration leads as I continue to navigate both the physical and digital realities we live in. For me, art is a tool for reflection, storytelling, and emotional truth. I create not only to understand myself but to invite others to look inward too. That is my why.

"But did you try your hardest? That’s what matters." These were the words my parents gave me every time I came to them with what I saw as failure. It wasn’t about the outcome. It was about the effort. That mindset shaped how I see the world. Every goal comes with a promise to show up and give my best. And that commitment—to effort, to consistency, to growth—is what transforms a dream from something imagined into something earned. I believe I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve because I have backed them with action, persistence, and a clear purpose. I’ve built resilience through real experiences. When I hit a personal best in the 5K after many seasons, it wasn’t the dream itself that made it happen. It was the miles I ran when I was tired. It was the days I trained through pain and bad weather. Dreams alone don’t bring results. Work does. Without that, dreams stay locked in your imagination. I didn’t even have time to fully dream of going to college before I found myself already living the steps it took to get there—writing scholarship essays, taking AP classes, maintaining a strong GPA, all while balancing work and personal commitments. College wasn’t a guarantee. But I acted like it was. I moved forward without waiting for permission. The same has been true in my pursuit of art. My dream of becoming a professional artist isn’t just a wish. It’s a path I’ve carved one project at a time. Each drawing, painting, and sculpture has moved me closer to the artist I am becoming. I’ve grown not only in skill, but in perspective and voice. I’ve learned how to express what I care about and how to make people feel something through my work. I’ve never chased being “better than” anyone else. My competition has always been with myself. I ask, did I try my hardest? Did I grow? What’s the next step? This mindset has shaped my process as both an artist and a person. I’ve learned to embrace the hard way, because the easy way doesn’t lead to growth. Progress comes from doing the work, staying present, and learning from feedback—even when it’s difficult to hear. In the end, those words from my parents still guide me. “Did you try your hardest?” is more than reassurance—it’s a standard. It means showing up when no one is watching. It means committing to your dreams even when you don’t yet see the results. That’s how I’ve lived my life so far. That’s how I will continue to move forward. I am worth the dreams I hold because I don’t just believe in them—I work for them. I measure my worth not by where I am today, but by how hard I am willing to try. And I will keep trying. Every day.

Health is showing up for yourself. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to put one’s health and wellness on the back burner to prioritize work or other responsibilities, but it’s important to make one’s health nonnegotiable. I decided to join cross country and track in middle school, mostly because I was not very good at sports that involved catching or throwing. Running, however, felt different. I loved the rush, the sense of personal achievement, and most of all, the time it gave me to process my thoughts. I continued running long distance throughout high school. Although I had no desire to compete at the collegiate level, mainly because of the time commitment and everything else I hoped to pursue, I still wanted to keep running in my life. So, when I started college, I joined both the running club and the boxing club. At the same time, I had just moved out for the first time, started a new relationship, enrolled full-time in school, and began working multiple jobs, including late-night shifts at a pizza restaurant. I quickly found myself slipping out of my healthy habits. Exercise was no longer a part of my daily routine. My eating habits worsened, and I started gaining weight. The freshman fifteen hit me hard, and the added comfort of a new relationship made it even easier to let things slide. I realized I had let my mental and physical well-being fall to the bottom of my priorities. I also discovered something important about myself: I am very habit-based. I thrive on structure and routine, but without it, I easily fall off track. I had tried setting weekly or monthly goals, but I rarely followed through. That was when I found a habit-tracking app that uses a streak system, placing a checkmark each day you complete your chosen habits. It reminded me of Snapchat streaks, where consistent daily activity is rewarded simply by not breaking the chain. I initially downloaded the app to help me develop a consistent art-making practice. As a Bachelor of Fine Arts student, I needed to produce work regularly throughout the week, not just in bursts. The app worked. I started building a daily art habit, painting and drawing every day. Encouraged by this progress, I added a 30-minute workout to my daily streak. At first, it was a small step, something manageable. Most days, especially in the summer, that time has been spent going on long walks. I realized that with both art and exercise, the hardest part is just getting started. But once I begin, I often go well beyond the 30 minutes. Walks turn into long hikes, and short painting sessions turn into hours in the studio. That momentum carries me forward. What I have learned from this experience is that health does not always come from dramatic changes. For me, it comes from small, repeated actions that build over time. Consistency, in a sense, is the most meaningful change. By using this habit-building method, I have taken control of both my physical and creative well-being. This experience has shaped how I prepare for my future. Whether I am balancing school, work, or life, I now understand the importance of building sustainable routines that support both my body and my mind. After all, life is a marathon, not a sprint.

In the field of visual art, collaboration is a meeting of minds. It is a way to expand perspective, challenge assumptions, and unlock forms of creativity that are not possible in isolation. While much of the artistic process is often seen as solitary, some of the most transformative experiences I have had as an artist have come through working with others. Whether in shared studio environments, group critiques, or collaborative installations, these interactions have pushed me to think differently about my work and about art itself. In college, collaboration became more central and structured than in any previous art experience I had. From the very beginning, our foundational courses emphasized working in groups. Unlike high school, where not everyone took art or collaborative projects seriously, my peers in college were just as dedicated and invested in their work as I was. That added a new kind of pressure, not just to do well, but to bring your best ideas forward for the benefit of the group. It was not only about making good art, but also about merging distinct artistic voices into something cohesive and meaningful. One of our first collaborative projects was designing and printing block-print kites to be used in two separate installations. Each step—designing, carving, printing, assembling—required us to negotiate our ideas and styles with others, which was not always easy. However, the result was stronger because of that exchange. There was also an added layer of accountability, knowing that our final pieces would be seen by a wider public. This is a unique aspect of collaboration in the visual arts, where the pressure and excitement of creating something for an audience heightens the experience. Another memorable project involved working with a group of students to design and print broadsides for a local poet using letterpress printing. Each team was responsible for visually interpreting a poem and producing a limited-edition set of prints, which were eventually compiled into a formal collection. The process required us to balance creative freedom with design consistency, while also learning a technical skill that none of us had fully mastered. The collaboration involved constant dialogue and compromise, and it taught me a great deal about visual interpretation, communication, and trust. One of the most inspiring examples of collaborative impact came from a student in my cohort who proposed a grant to the Arts Partnership in our city. His idea was to create a public art project that featured student artwork on banners displayed downtown. This project became known as the Streetlight Gallery. It was a success and has since grown into an annual juried competition. Students now have the opportunity to exhibit their work publicly and receive compensation. This project illustrates how collaboration between artists, institutions, and the community can lead to lasting change and the creation of new traditions. To me, collaboration in the arts means creating with openness, sharing ideas, exchanging skills, and allowing your process to be shaped by others. It does not mean giving up authorship or individuality. Instead, it means creating space for meaningful exchange where everyone involved has the opportunity to grow. Collaboration requires flexibility, humility, and a willingness to experiment. Often, it is where true innovation begins. These experiences have reshaped how I view my role as an artist. I am not just a maker, but a contributor to something greater than myself.

Art has always been a central part of my life. Growing up, I was fortunate to be surrounded by people who nurtured my passion. I’m not sure if it was my childhood drawings that caught people’s attention or simply the way I threw myself into my work with relentless dedication—but the support I received made a lasting impact. It gave me the confidence and foundation to grow as an artist. Throughout my early education, I had the privilege of learning from art teachers who each brought something unique to my experience. My elementary school art teacher was vibrant and eccentric, yet grounded and serious when it came to the work. In middle school, my teachers placed a stronger emphasis on technical skill. That shift challenged me to become more precise and intentional with my craft. I was lucky to have friends who were equally passionate—together, we sketched in math class and folded origami between periods. These moments created a sense of community and shared purpose that deepened my commitment to art. High school was when things became more serious. I had two very different, but equally influential, art teachers. One encouraged me to enter competitions, develop my portfolio, and pursue college-level courses. The other pushed me to experiment with new materials, ideas, and perspectives. Both held high standards—ones that were tough to meet but never out of reach. Their belief in my potential motivated me to grow beyond what I thought I was capable of. I enrolled in AP art classes, applied to art schools, and became certain that this was the life I wanted to build. However, as graduation approached, the tone around me began to shift. “Art is a great hobby,” some would say. “Maybe a side hustle—but not a real career.” For the first time, I felt some of the support around me start to fade. It was painful, especially because I was creating the best work I’d ever made. That’s when I realized I had to become my own biggest supporter. While others may mean well, only I know what path is right for me. I had to trust my vision. Since beginning my Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2022, my understanding of what art is—and what it can be—has deepened significantly. My college education has not only sharpened my technical skills but also transformed the way I think about art’s role in the world. I’ve become more intentional in my storytelling, more experimental in my approach, and more confident in my voice. I often think about who I would have become if I had gone straight into the workforce after high school. College has taught me so much—not just about art, but about who I am. Art education has shaped every stage of my life. It has given me mentors, collaborators, and challenges that helped me grow. But perhaps most importantly, it has taught me to persevere—so that one day, I can offer the same inspiration and support to others that I was so lucky to receive.

As a first-generation and low-income student, my educational journey has been shaped by both challenges and determination. Growing up, the path to higher education wasn’t something I had mapped out for me. My family did not have the resources or knowledge about college, which made navigating the system on my own a daunting task. However, these circumstances have only strengthened my resolve to pursue a college education and have given me a deep sense of responsibility to not only succeed for myself but to also create opportunities for others who may face similar obstacles. Being the first in my family to pursue higher education has meant that I have had to learn how to navigate every step of the process on my own. From researching scholarship opportunities to understanding financial aid and application procedures, I’ve had to be proactive and resourceful. The lack of familial experience with college has also meant that I didn’t always have someone to turn to for advice, which made the process feel even more overwhelming. However, this experience has taught me resilience, independence, and the value of seeking out resources and mentorship. It has motivated me to work harder, persist through setbacks, and create a path for others who may follow. The financial aspect of being a low-income student has also presented its own set of challenges. Paying for college has required me to work multiple part-time jobs while balancing my studies, which has taught me the importance of time management and financial responsibility. While this has been difficult, it has also given me a sense of ownership over my education. I know that every hour I work, every scholarship I apply for, and every opportunity I pursue is an investment in my future. Despite the financial strain, I remain determined to make the most of the educational opportunities available to me. Attending college is crucial to my personal and professional goals. As an aspiring artist, I believe that higher education will provide me with the tools to refine my craft, expand my creative abilities, and engage with the broader artistic community. College is also important because it will allow me to explore different disciplines, gain diverse perspectives, and build relationships with mentors and peers who can help guide my artistic and professional development. I want to use my art to address societal issues and make a meaningful impact on my community. College will provide me with the knowledge and experiences necessary to use my creative practice as a tool for social change, as well as the opportunity to develop my voice as an artist. In addition to my artistic goals, attending college is a way for me to break cycles of limited opportunity in my family. By obtaining a degree, I hope to not only create a better future for myself but also to show others in my family and community that higher education is achievable. I want to be an example for those who may doubt their ability to succeed, and through my achievements, I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background. Ultimately, college is important to me because it represents the chance to grow, learn, and create a future that I can be proud of. It will allow me to pursue my passions, gain the skills necessary to succeed in my chosen career, and give back to the community that has supported me along the way. My journey as a first-generation and low-income student has shaped who I am today, and it drives my determination to succeed and make the most of every opportunity college offers.

The everyday world around me, especially nature, constantly feeds my artistic practice. From the cracked, weathered texture of bark to the shimmering dance of sunlight on a river’s surface, these moments immersed in nature spark vivid imagery and new perspectives. Nature’s blend of chaos and harmony mirrors my own creative process, where I intertwine abstraction with grounded, tactile forms. My connection to nature is not only visual but deeply emotional, offering a quiet space for reflection. The shifting colors of a sunset or the soft rustle of leaves in the wind inspire me to create pieces that echo the serenity or wildness I feel in those moments. In my previous semester’s project and show, Nature Prevails, I explored the relationship between humans and the natural world, delving into themes of interaction, preservation, and transformation. This project examined the balance between human intervention and the resilience of nature, highlighting how, despite the damage we cause, nature always finds a way to thrive. Through this work, I aimed to emphasize that our connection with the environment is one of coexistence, not domination. Nature’s diversity offers an ever-evolving landscape for experimentation. Each encounter with the natural world invites me to try new materials, explore contrasting textures, or play with unexpected compositions. These experiences shape the emotional undertones of my work, as I channel the moods I experience in nature—whether it’s the calm of a mountain sunrise or the raw energy of a thunderstorm—into visual form. Through my art, I hope to continue exploring how human interaction with the environment can be both destructive and healing, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of our place in the natural world.

Education is important to me because it represents both personal growth and the potential to make a meaningful impact on others. Growing up without a clear roadmap for higher education, I had to navigate this journey on my own, which has deepened my understanding of its value. For me, education is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about empowerment. It provides the tools to not only change one’s own life but also to influence the lives of others. As a first-generation student, I am acutely aware of the doors education opens, not just for career opportunities, but also for personal development and the ability to contribute to society in a way that is impactful and meaningful. My passion for education stems from my belief in its transformative power. Education, especially higher education, is a way to push past limitations and break down barriers. It allows me to engage with complex ideas, develop critical thinking skills, and refine my creative practice. As an artist, education provides me with the foundation to understand the deeper role that art plays in society. Through education, I have learned that art can be more than just self-expression; it can be a tool for advocacy, storytelling, and social change. This is why I have chosen to pursue a degree in fine arts, as it allows me to merge my creative practice with my desire to make a lasting impact on the world around me. The legacy I hope to leave is one of inspiration and accessibility. I want to show others that education is not just for the privileged, but for anyone with the drive to pursue it. As a first-generation student, I am especially passionate about opening doors for others who may feel that higher education is out of reach. I want to be a mentor to those who come from similar backgrounds, helping them understand that, despite the obstacles, they too can achieve their dreams. Whether through public art projects, gallery exhibitions, or personal mentorship, I want to make art—and education—more accessible to communities. I hope to demonstrate that with resilience, determination, and support, anyone can create a meaningful and fulfilling future. In addition to inspiring others to pursue education, I also hope to contribute to making education more inclusive and equitable. I believe that education should be a tool for social change, where diverse voices are heard, and different perspectives are valued. I want to be part of a future where higher education is not only accessible but also empowering for individuals from all walks of life. By dedicating myself to both my own education and to helping others along the way, I aim to leave behind a legacy of knowledge, resilience, and the belief that education is a powerful means of personal and collective transformation. Ultimately, my legacy will be one of impact—through the art I create, the people I inspire, and the communities I support. Education has provided me with the foundation to build this future, and it is my goal to ensure that my work helps to empower and uplift others, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond myself.

Being a first-generation college student has profoundly shaped my career goals and fueled my drive to succeed in both my creative practice and community impact. Growing up without a clear roadmap for higher education, I had to carve my own path. This experience instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility—not only to succeed for myself but also to set an example for others who may follow. I understand the barriers that first-generation students face, including financial challenges and a lack of mentorship. These obstacles have inspired me to pursue a career that combines creativity with community engagement. My goal is to use my art, particularly in painting and sculpture, to address societal issues and give voice to the overlooked. I aspire to create public art that fosters connection, sparks conversation, and makes art accessible to all. In addition to my creative pursuits, I have completed certificates in Family Financial Counseling and Private Enterprise. Educating others about personal finance is another passion of mine. I hope to use this knowledge to help others achieve financial stability and realize their dreams. My experience as a first-generation student has also made me acutely aware of the importance of mentorship. I am committed to giving back by mentoring other first-generation students and aspiring artists, showing them that despite the challenges, higher education and a fulfilling career are attainable. Through mentorship, I aim to help others navigate the complexities of higher education and demonstrate the power of perseverance and hard work. Ultimately, my career goals are rooted in the belief that art can change the world and that everyone, regardless of background, should have the opportunity to create and appreciate art. As a first-generation college student, I feel a deep sense of purpose in not only succeeding personally but also helping others find their own paths to success.

Being the first in my family to obtain a college degree is both a personal and collective achievement. It symbolizes the power of perseverance, the courage to dream, and the hope of creating new possibilities. The weight of this responsibility motivates me every day, knowing that my success could serve as a stepping stone for others in my family to follow in my footsteps, whether through their own academic pursuits or other forms of personal growth. In college, I am pursuing a degree in fine arts with an emphasis on painting and sculpture. These mediums have always been a part of who I am, both as forms of expression and as ways to communicate deeply with others. I’m fascinated by the relationship between art, culture, and the human experience. Through my studies, I hope to not only refine my technical skills but also expand my understanding of art's power to influence societal change. I am particularly interested in how art can tell stories that challenge the status quo and inspire people to think differently about the world around them. This journey will allow me to explore new techniques, experiment with different materials, and ultimately create pieces that reflect my personal growth and the world I engage with. Along the way, I’m also exploring interdisciplinary areas like public art, which I believe will help me create works that bridge my artistic practice with real-world impact. My long-term goals revolve around both my creative practice and community engagement. I envision building a career where I can merge art with social impact. Whether through public art projects, gallery exhibitions, or community-centered collaborations, I want to create work that speaks to and for people—work that brings attention to important social issues, promotes understanding, and fosters connection. I hope to mentor aspiring artists, particularly those who are first-generation students like myself, showing them that the path to success is built on hard work, resilience, and the willingness to dream big. Beyond my artistic career, I am deeply committed to the idea of making art accessible and sustainable. This involves educating others about the value of art and how it can be a tool for individual and collective empowerment. I also plan to further my education through graduate school, honing my craft and exploring new creative possibilities. Ultimately, I want my work to inspire change—whether by offering people new ways of seeing the world or by opening doors for future generations to follow.

Pursuing higher education is a path I chose out of both necessity and a deep desire to create lasting change. Higher education, for me, represents more than just an academic pursuit. It is a gateway to discovering how I can make a meaningful impact through my creative practice. My passion for the arts, particularly painting and sculpture, has always driven me to pursue a deeper understanding of not just the technical aspects of my craft, but also the ways in which art can influence and shape the world. Through education, I have learned that my art can be more than self-expression; it can be a tool for storytelling and change. Preparing for college as a first-generation student has required me to be proactive, resilient, and resourceful. I have taken on multiple part-time jobs since I was 15, not just to support myself financially but also to build skills that would help me thrive in a collegiate environment. Working in different fields has taught me how to manage time, money, and energy. I’ve learned that the balance between work and study is crucial, and I’ve had to develop the discipline to prioritize both my financial stability and my academic goals. In addition to the work experience, I’ve taken on challenges outside of my degree program to ensure I am prepared for what lies ahead. I completed certificates in Family Financial Planning and Private Enterprise to better understand personal finance and business practices. These certificates have provided me with essential knowledge that I can apply to both my art and future career. They’ve also given me the confidence to know that education isn’t confined to a single path but can be flexible and interdisciplinary. Applying for scholarships has been another important step in preparing for college. Facing the reality of limited financial resources, I knew that scholarships were key to pursuing my dreams. I didn’t give up when I didn’t receive anything. I rewrote my applications, researched new opportunities, and persisted until I received the support I needed to continue. Through this process, I not only learned how to advocate for myself but also how to hold space for my story and my goals. I learned that rejection is part of the process, but persistence is what ultimately leads to success. As I continue my college journey, I aim to use my education not only to further my own artistic and professional goals but also to give back to the community. I want to be a mentor to others who may feel that college is out of reach. By pursuing higher education, I am not only shaping my future but also contributing to a legacy that others can follow. In many ways, my college journey is just beginning, but the preparation I’ve done—working hard, gaining diverse knowledge, and persevering through challenges—has built a strong foundation for success. I am excited to see where this journey takes me.

My greatest achievement to date has been funding my own college education while staying on track to graduate with my bachelor’s degree a semester early. College has been a personal revolution—one built on resilience, sacrifice, and determination. Every class I’ve taken and every credit I’ve earned has been the result of countless hours of work and a refusal to give up when things got hard. Since I was 15, I’ve held multiple jobs to support myself. I’ve worked both creatively and practically, building skills across fields while saving every dollar I could for tuition, rent, and a future. I’ve learned to manage my time, money, and energy with precision. And I’ve learned that discipline and dreaming don’t cancel each other out—they build on each other. Throughout college, I’ve pursued every opportunity to expand what I know. Alongside my main degree, I’ve completed a Certificate in Family Financial Planning and a Certificate in Private Enterprise. I wanted to understand how individuals and small businesses thrive. Scholarship applications became a core part of that journey. After facing dozens of rejections, I rewrote, researched, and persisted until the “yes” letters finally started to arrive. What I learned through that process was not just how to advocate for myself, but how to hold space for my story. Each “no” reminded me that my goals were worth fighting for, and each “yes” felt like a door I had pried open with persistence, clarity, and belief in the value of my path. This achievement taught me that resilience isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s just consistency—the kind you show in early mornings, long shifts, late-night assignments, and quiet determination. I’ve learned that I can rely on myself and that I can turn uncertainty into growth. Most importantly, I’ve realized that success doesn’t come from ease—it comes from endurance. Looking ahead, I hope to continue blending art, education, personal finance, and community engagement. I plan to pursue graduate school and continue refining my creative practice. I want to mentor other young creatives from underrepresented backgrounds and help them see that they have the right to take up space in these conversations. I want to be part of building systems that center equity, access, and creativity—because I’ve experienced what it means to navigate the gaps firsthand. Funding my education, graduating early, completing additional certificates, and building a creative life on my own terms—that’s my greatest achievement. But in many ways, it’s only the beginning.

As a first-generation college student, I’ve carried the weight of expectations alongside the fire of possibility. My dreams are rooted in a need to create—not just art, but impact. I see my work as more than a personal expression; it’s a way to connect, uplift, and tell stories that don’t often get told. That desire to create connection has shaped not only my personal work but also how I show up in my community. I’ve contributed to public art projects that bring creativity into shared spaces to celebrate community identity and make art accessible to everyone. Since I was 15, I’ve worked tirelessly to fund my own education. Every paycheck, every saved dollar has been a step toward building a future I’ve had to imagine from scratch. Today, I balance two part-time jobs while pursuing my degree full-time. I work to grow my skill set, cover living expenses, pay for school, and save for what comes next—a move, a home, and eventually, graduate school. This scholarship would do more than help me pay for classes—it would give me room to breathe. It would mean less time worrying about bills and more time creating meaningful work in the studio. It would let me invest more deeply in my community and my vision. Personally, it’s validation that my story matters. Professionally, it’s fuel for the legacy I hope to build—one where others like me can see what’s possible when someone believes in them.

I feel most creative when I am able to reflect deeply—when I can slow down, sit with my thoughts, and observe the world around me with a sense of presence. This often happens during moments of solitude in nature, or when I am in the quiet of my studio surrounded by raw materials, old sketches, and unfinished ideas. Creativity, for me, is rarely a spontaneous burst; it is something I build through intentional observation, emotional honesty, and the willingness to sit with discomfort. I often find inspiration in moments that feel mundane or fleeting—a shadow cast on the floor, the color of a dying leaf, the sensation of memory returning uninvited. These quiet details act as doors into larger ideas I want to explore. Much of my work stems from personal experience, particularly through the process of self-portraiture. Pieces like my mixed media painting "Memento Mori" allow me to explore identity in layers—who I am, what I’ve endured, and what I carry forward. In this kind of work, I don’t just depict my face; I capture emotion, vulnerability, time, and decay. The inclusion of symbolic objects, natural elements, or abstracted forms becomes a way of telling stories that are simultaneously personal and universal. The self becomes a landscape through which I examine fear, mortality, growth, and transformation. I also view art-making as a form of self-excavation. My identity, including emotional experiences and personal philosophies, are not always front-facing in my work, but they live in the materials I choose, the compositions I build, and the concepts I revisit. I often return to themes of impermanence, memory, and the body’s relationship to environment. Nature plays a central role in my work not just as a subject but as a collaborator. I draw parallels between my internal experience and the seasons, the way erosion shapes stone, or how light changes across a surface. I’m particularly interested in how environments leave marks on the body and how the body can be seen as an environment itself. My art is also a form of communication—a way of making sense of experiences I can’t always explain with words. Whether I’m painting, sculpting, or combining media, I use the process to ask questions: What does it mean to be present? How do we process grief? What is the role of memory in identity? By channeling lived experiences into my work, I hope to offer viewers a space to reflect on their own. The goal is not to give answers, but to make space for feeling and connection. Ultimately, I feel most creative when I allow myself to be honest—when I stop trying to impress or control the outcome, and instead trust the process to reveal something real. Through that process, my identity, my passions, and my experiences naturally find their way into the work, often in ways I don’t fully understand until after the piece is finished.

Through my art, I aim to foster deeper connections between people and the natural world while creating spaces for reflection, curiosity, and healing. As a multidisciplinary artist, I view my work as a form of visual storytelling—an ongoing autobiography that captures emotion, memory, and presence. I’m particularly drawn to exploring the relationship between humans and their environments, both physical and emotional. By merging painting, sculpture, and installation, I create immersive experiences that invite viewers to slow down and contemplate their place in the world. One of my goals is to use art to elevate often-overlooked narratives and sensations—moments of stillness, transformation, or introspection that get lost in the noise of everyday life. I believe that visual language can be a powerful tool for empathy, and by sharing work that is personal and vulnerable, I hope to inspire others to engage more openly with their own stories. In addition to personal expression, I am committed to making art more accessible. Whether through public installations, workshops, or community-based projects, I want to bring art into everyday spaces and foster inclusive environments where people from all backgrounds feel welcome to create and engage. I’m especially interested in collaborating with environmental and educational initiatives to design art that supports wellness, learning, and sustainability. Ultimately, my art is not just about creating objects—it’s about creating connection. I want to contribute to a culture that values creative thought, emotional intelligence, and environmental awareness. If I can help someone feel more seen, more grounded, or more inspired through my work, then I believe I’ve made a meaningful impact.

I am a first-generation college student currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts, along with a Certificate in Private Enterprise and a Certificate in Family Financial Counseling at North Dakota State University. My academic journey has been shaped by a deep passion for both the arts and personal finance—two fields that allow me to creatively problem-solve in meaningful and impactful ways. These passions both offer unique opportunities to help people, whether by supporting emotional growth through art or building financial literacy and confidence through education. In today’s fast-paced world, becoming an artist is a deeply vulnerable act, full of risk in every imaginable sector—emotional, financial, and professional. Yet I believe art remains one of the most powerful ways we can create space for reflection and connection. It is in this space that I find purpose. My goal as an artist is to offer people moments of pause—opportunities to slow down, reflect, and reimagine what it means to connect—with themselves, with others, and with the world. That is the heart of my work: to spread love and understanding through art. In my practice, I explore transformation through layered materials, symbolic imagery, and a curiosity-driven process. I often merge painting and sculpture to create more immersive, tactile experiences that challenge how we perceive space and meaning. This hands-on, exploratory approach has taught me invaluable lessons in patience, resilience, and adaptability. Most importantly, it’s shown me that creativity is not a solitary endeavor—it’s a dialogue. It’s about sharing, listening, and growing together. I want others to feel invited into that conversation and to feel safe enough to share their own stories and voices. Looking ahead, I plan to make a positive impact through a career that merges creative practice with community engagement. I hope to work as both a professional artist and an educator or facilitator, designing workshops and collaborative projects that make the arts more inclusive and accessible. I'm especially passionate about initiatives that bring nature and art together—through outdoor installations, temporary public works, and interactive projects that encourage people to physically engage with their environment. I also believe that artists have a cultural responsibility to ask questions, open up new possibilities, and foster empathy. We need more spaces for slow thought, honest reflection, and unfiltered connection—spaces that aren’t shaped by algorithms or consumer trends. Art can be that space. As I continue my education and build my portfolio, I am also laying the foundation for a career rooted in generosity. I strive to lead with kindness—offering support to peers, mentoring younger students, and volunteering at local art events, such as serving as a group leader at the art camp hosted by my university. Art, at its core, is a communal act. This scholarship would support not only my education but also the future work I hope to do: bringing art to more people, creating inclusive spaces for imagination, and using creative practice as a tool for healing, connection, and change. My portfolio is available at the link below for your review. https://wildzebra2014.wixsite.com/morgan-reeder-founda/portfolio

Memento Mori is a mixed media diptych painting, and it remains the most personal and meaningful piece I’ve created. It explores the cyclical relationship between life and death, using symbolism from my own experiences and connection to nature. A skeletal tree form breaks beyond the wooden stretcher, symbolizing both growth and decay. A self-portrait reaches toward the second panel, its fingers turning to bone as it reaches for a parakeet flying above—its skull emerging from its yellow, feathered body. I wanted the painting to feel alive—fragile, yet enduring, and surreal. The piece reflects my thoughts on nature: sublime in its beauty, but also powerful. While we control aspects of life, time—and death—are uncontrollable. This work is a reflection on transformation, a reminder that nature prevails. What excites me most about Memento Mori is how it merges painting with sculpture to tell a personal story. I used raw materials—fabric and branches—and extended the hands of the portrait and the bird’s wing beyond the canvas with foam to emphasize the interaction between the panels. The negative space between subjects highlights the distant relationship we often face with death: near, yet far. The diptych format allowed me to explore dualities—presence and absence, beauty and breakdown, growth and surrender. This piece deepened my understanding of art as a vessel for memory, emotion, and philosophy. It allowed me to be honest and intuitive in my expression, and I am proud of what it became.

I once read that love is paying attention. I know this to be true. From long-distance running to deer hunting, reading, writing, and, most significantly, creating art, I have always found fulfillment in activities that demand time and focus. I embrace the solitude and the deep connection to myself that it fosters. My art, at its core, represents love—a quiet devotion to the process, and the conversation it sparks between my mind and body through the act of creation. These days, painting is where I invest most of my time. Art offers me a unique space to sit with myself, to challenge and refine my skills, to express emotion, and ultimately to create something that embodies a piece of me—something I can share with others. Art is my way of conversing with the world, inviting reflection and interaction without the need for words. As a first-generation college student, the opportunity to study studio art is not just a personal achievement—it represents the rewriting of my family’s legacy. My parents, who taught me the value of resilience through hard work and unwavering dedication, instilled in me a desire to always give my best in everything I pursue. For me, art is not solely about creative freedom; it is about taking that strength and transforming it into something bold. Art is how I process the world around me and begin to understand myself. I am pursuing a degree in studio art because I want to create work that encourages reflection, opens dialogue, and moves people in ways that feel real and meaningful. My passion for art comes from its ability to hold memory, emotion, and connection. I explore themes of human interaction, nature, and time, blending the figure with the environment to show how we shape and are shaped by the world. The creative process feels alive to me—a physical manifestation of my thoughts and emotions that transforms with each brushstroke. I dedicate my time and energy to this process because it’s the one thing that truly fulfills me. My work is intuitive, physical, and often messy, whether I’m painting, sculpting, or experimenting with unconventional materials. On the best days, I lose track of time, entering a flow where the work leads me rather than the other way around. In those moments, I connect with the deepest parts of myself, and I know I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. Art is my way of paying attention—to myself, to others, and to the world—and it’s what I’ll leave behind for others to love.

In ancient times, art aligned with religious and spiritual practices. Art has also been used to assert power and status and as a vehicle for intellectual and scientific exploration. Art has educated, inspired, and been a platform for social and political commentary. Today, art’s purpose is more multifaceted than ever before. Art serves as a form of personal and collective expression and a tool for social change, continuing to reflect and shape the human experience in ever-evolving ways, and who knows what the next generation of artists will bring to the table? I am part of that next generation of artists. I am interested in contemporary portraiture through painting and sculpture to capture the essence of human touch, interaction, and emotion. The face tells so many stories. It's the place people wear their age, stress, and feelings. In my practice, I want to touch on that humanity that brings people together, as we all live a life one and the same. Even from diverse backgrounds, everyone's stories somehow still feel familiar. My focus in portraying people is to create a narrative, taking influence from surrealism and impressionism to create innovative, unconventional, and unique compositions. I have used my art to promote mental health awareness and participated in numerous public art projects that bring beauty to the community. I have used my skills to partake in face paint volunteering to bring joy to the kids at events, such as a Juneteenth festival in 2023. I plan to continue to use my art for meaningful causes and bring artistic expression into the community. Before coming to study art at North Dakota State University, I simply enjoyed creating. Now, I have a focus to make the work I feel will be that next stepping stone in the timeline of art. Though I’m not pursuing a teaching degree, I also want to use my skills to educate others. By nurturing the creative potential of individuals, I hope to inspire the following generation of artists.  Art reflects the full spectrum of human experience and brightens our world. As a contemporary artist, I will make a positive impact by contributing to that ever-evolving narrative by sharing my voice on social issues, creating public art projects, and educating others.

Growing up, I believed leadership was reserved for the overly social and extroverted, viewing it as a natural talent. As a quiet and timid child, I never saw myself in that role. However, in high school, I realized I could be a leader too. My first significant leadership role was as the captain of my cross-country team. As a captain, I led summer training sessions and warmups, motivated my teammates, and fostered team spirit. This role taught me perseverance, teamwork, and the ability to inspire others. This experience taught me that anyone can grow into a strong leader. Another significant leadership role I hold is as an assistant general manager at Papa John's. Initially, I was scared of the responsibility of even being a shift leader when I turned 18. But I grew into the role. It wasn’t long until I was an assistant general manager and knew the ins and outs of running a store. This position requires me to manage a diverse team, oversee daily operations, and ensure the smooth running of the restaurant. It is valuable to me to lead by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic and positive attitude. By providing constructive feedback, I help my team members develop their skills. I realized in just a few years that anyone can become a leader. Leadership is about inspiring and guiding others, making impactful decisions, and always setting an example. I've also served as a leader in my school and community, through hosting events and volunteering. I am a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Fellow at the School of Design, Art, and Architecture at North Dakota State University, where it is my duty to plan events to bring together our community. Looking ahead, I hope to expand my influence as a leader in entrepreneurial pursuits. I have the goal to start and run a business, leveraging my leadership skills to drive organizational success. I aim to create inclusive workplaces that prioritize employee well-being. By fostering collaboration and innovation, I hope to build high-performing, motivated teams. Beyond professional aspirations, I am committed to using my leadership skills for social causes and community development. Effective leadership involves giving back and making a positive difference. I am passionate about educating others in financial literacy, believing everyone should manage their assets properly, especially in this day and age when it's so easy to get into debt. My experiences as a leader, from being a captain of my cross-country team to being a manager at my job, have equipped me with valuable leadership skills. These roles taught me the importance of empathy, communication, adaptability, and leading by example. I am excited to apply these skills to create positive change in my career and community, inspiring others and contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society.

My trajectory changed at the North Dakota Region Scholastic Art and Writing reception during my senior year of high school. I had put my best artwork into the show, a culmination of my hard work throughout high school. In return, I received many awards: Silver and Gold Keys, and a Gold Key Portfolio Award. And most importantly, I received a $1500 scholarship to pursue art at North Dakota State University. I initially didn't want to attend college for fear it would be too costly. However, the support in my high school convinced me that I should at least try to apply for scholarships and apply to schools to see what would happen. Though graduating second in my class with many college credits already under my belt, I didn't choose schools based on prestige. Instead, I decided I would attend what would be the cheapest and closest school to conserve my limited resources. A $1500 scholarship doesn't seem life-altering. It isn't much considering the 10k tuition, but on top of other scholarships and aid I received overall, I had enough money to cover my entire first year at NDSU. But to be recognized by the NDSU faculty at the Scholastic reception and given a tour of the art department soon after, I already felt that NDSU would be home. The art program had me excited to grow as an artist and become prepared for a professional career. It became clear that college could become something I could afford as an investment in my future. Attending college as a low-income, first-generation college student has been my greatest achievement. Coming from a working-class family, the path to higher education was neither straightforward nor guaranteed. My parents, though supportive, lacked the financial means to cover the costs of college for me and my two younger sisters. I had to fund my education through scholarships, part-time jobs, and a diligent savings plan throughout high school. The temptation to pursue work after high school was always present. However, my passion for the arts was undeniable. I promised myself early on that if I did attend college, it would be for something I love. Art has always been my way to express myself and connect with my community. Choosing a Bachelor of Fine Arts was a decision driven by my love for creativity, despite the uncertainty that often accompanies a career in the arts. This journey to attend college has taught me lessons about independence, taking risks, and the value of following my passion. Through perseverance, determination, and a relentless pursuit of my goals, I have grown as an individual and laid a solid foundation for a future career in the arts. My college experience has allowed me to explore my artistic talents in a structured and supportive environment. It has provided access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities I would not have had otherwise. Graduating from college will be a monumental milestone, for me and my family. It will symbolize the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and determination. Post-graduation, I aim to either pursue my Masters in Fine Arts or jump right into a career in the arts. I am a lifelong learner, always seeking to better myself and ways to better the world. In following my passions, I hope to make a lasting impact. I plan to leverage the skills and knowledge gained during my studies to make meaningful contributions to the art world and beyond.

Of all days, I left the country for the first time on my birthday. It was also my first time on a plane. Choosing to study abroad in Italy was a fascinating journey of so many new experiences. A bucket list item during my time in college was to study abroad. I jumped at the opportunity when I heard of the "Italy: Politics, History, and Art" program. This study abroad trip in May 2023 to the historic Italian cities of Florence, Venice, and Rome allowed me to walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest thinkers and artists of Western civilization and explore the streets where the ancient and modern worlds meet. I'm from North Dakota and have barely experienced much else. After nearly a day of flying and layovers, experiencing time zone changes, and jet lag, it took a while to set in when walking off that last plane that I was in a different country. Not until I left the airport and saw the architecture did it truly set in that this world was rich with history and culture unlike I had ever seen. Some of the most memorable sights were experiencing the scale of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican and the bright houses of Burano on the Venetian Lagoon. As an art major, I enjoyed getting lost in the masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery of Florence that illustrate human creativity throughout the ages. These experiences enhanced my understanding of art's historical and present impact on society and inspired my future studies and artistic endeavors. One lesson I took from the locals is to enjoy life. Italians spend much time being social over food and wine. One interaction I look back on frequently was with a bartender from New Zealand who had a successful business in the US but decided to settle in Italy because he simply enjoyed life in Italy over anywhere else. Traveling is a transformative journey. There is no better way to experience new cultures and learn history. Traveling also pushes you out of your comfort zone. I decided to stay on after the designated study abroad program to explore Milan. After booking my flights, I initially tried to back out of this decision, scared of traveling alone in an unfamiliar region. However, my professor assured me that travel in Europe was easy and it was worth continuing to explore while I was there. He was right, and I'm glad I found the courage to continue to travel independently. This introduction to traveling abroad opened up experiences vital to my success as a student as I continue my studies and career in art. This abroad trip was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I might not be able to afford again in the near future. I took away from this study abroad trip to Italy how stepping out of one’s comfort zone and into the wider world can lead to valuable personal growth and a new way of approaching life and understanding history.

When envisioning future endeavors, aspirations are often likened to a "journey" or a "path." I see this metaphor very clearly. It's a simple depiction. It features a figure standing on an unpaved path, facing a fork in the road: a choice. One path leads to uncertainty, fraught with risks but potentially great rewards. The other path appears mundane yet safe and predictable. The question becomes: does one pursue their dreams, venturing into the realm of higher education with a price, or does one opt for the easy transition into the workforce, exchanging time for tasks that may lack fulfillment, devoid of personal growth, and settle for a fate too common among those unable to afford the path of their dreams? As a first-generation college student, embracing this journey entails embracing risks. I could have avoided the costs and uncertain future of higher education. I could have accepted a role as a General Manager at the fast-food establishment where I work. However, this would have come at the expense of sacrificing all my time, constantly being on call, devoid of free time or social life, and working every weekend and holiday. Alternatively, I seized the opportunity to break the cycle, charting a new course in higher education to pursue a degree and potentially achieve both financial stability and personal fulfillment. Attaining a Bachelor in Fine Arts and a Certificate of Private Enterprise from North Dakota State University would represent a milestone in my personal growth and the establishment of a legacy. For me, It's about paving the way for future generations so that they won't have to face the same dilemma of weighing the cost of higher education. In immersing myself in the study of art, I aspire to find my voice and share my perspective with the world. Beyond artistic pursuits, I'm delving into the realm of Private Enterprise, gaining insights into market dynamics and the contemporary economic landscape. Already, my college journey has been transformative, marked by exploration. In my first two years, I seized every opportunity, from extracurricular clubs to internships, other jobs, and even a study abroad experience in Italy. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue a Master's in Fine Arts, aiming to make a meaningful impact through my artwork and active participation in the artistic community. I am already engaging in public art projects and showcasing my work in publications and regional exhibitions. With determination and a commitment to excellence, I embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead on this path, ready to realize my dreams through financial freedom and happiness.

As much as I would love to devote myself entirely to my education, immersing myself in studies day and night, free from financial worry, I cannot manufacture idealistic fantasies. While I could have immediately entered the workforce after high school to save money, I was apprehensive, fearing I might never return to pursue higher education, as my parents never did. I recognized the need to financially support myself as a first-generation college student. My time would be committed to both my education and work. I've worked in fast food and restaurants since I was 15. In pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Certificate of Private Enterprise, I further wanted to extend my skillsets. I wanted to learn not just at school but at work as well. This determination led me to take on leadership roles early on. Before enrolling at North Dakota State University, I earned promotions to shift leader and later Assistant General Manager at Papa John's. Despite the financial strain, I made a conscious decision to avoid student loans, driven by the fear of being unable to repay them. Instead, I managed my living and educational expenses by working 20 hours a week during the school year and full-time during summer and winter breaks. Currently, I balance dual roles as a ceramic technician at NDSU's School of Art, Architecture, and Design and as Assistant General Manager at Papa John's. I can't lie, juggling these positions alongside my education has been challenging. At times, I've felt like a sink with a dripping faucet and a slow drain, with my uneven flow of responsibilities, and a fear that I may overflow if I lose sight of the worth of my efforts. However, the recognition from peers and professors for my strong work ethic and effective time management serves as a reassuring reminder that my efforts will pay off. Despite the erratic schedule caused by late-night shifts and early morning classes, I've maintained my academic performance, and am on the path to graduating a semester early. My current roles have equipped me with a diverse skill set. As a ceramic technician, I handle various tasks including kiln operation, clay processing, glaze mixing, and even welding. Similarly, my management position has honed my abilities in restaurant operations, inventory management, customer service, and leadership. These experiences have shaped me into a motivated and achievement-oriented individual, well-prepared for future challenges. Looking forward, my ultimate goal is to secure a fulfilling job aligned with my degree and, eventually, to provide financial support for my future children's education. Through perseverance, hard work, and the lessons learned from my diverse experiences, I am confident that my journey will enable me to make a positive impact.

To achieve my goals and aspirations, I've always embraced wearing multiple hats. During high school, this meant juggling a full class schedule with college-level coursework, lengthy cross-country practices, and clocking in at my fast food job afterward. As my parents couldn't financially support my college prospects, the impending reality of college expenses loomed immensely. However, as a first-generation college student, I was determined to pave my path, so I began to put in the work. That determination led me to take on leadership roles early on. Before starting at North Dakota State University, I was promoted to shift leader and then Assistant General Manager at Papa Johns. Throughout my college journey, I seized every opportunity, from extracurricular clubs to internships and even a study abroad experience in Italy. Despite the financial strain of tuition and living expenses, I avoided student loans by working 20 hours a week during the school year and working full-time during summer and winter breaks. Now, I hold dual roles as a ceramic technician at NDSU's School of Art, Architecture, and Design, and as Assistant General Manager at Papa John's. Balancing these positions while pursuing a Bachelor's in Fine Arts and a Certificate in Private Enterprise has been challenging. However, the continued praise by peers and professors for my work ethic and time management skills reminds me that the extra work will pay dividends in the future. Despite the sporadic sleeping and eating schedule caused by late-night shifts that last until 1 am and early classes that start at 8 am, I've maintained my academic performance and personal relationships. My current roles have equipped me with a diverse skill set. As a ceramic technician, I handle kiln operation, clay processing, glaze mixing, and even new skills in welding. Meanwhile, my current management position has honed my skills in restaurant operations, inventory management, customer service, and leadership. These experiences have shaped me into a motivated, achievement-oriented individual with a skill set that will aid me in my future endeavors. My dream is to secure a fulfilling job in line with my degree and eventually assist in financially supporting my future children's education, as my personal college journey has been so fulfilling. I want my future children to have the option of a college education without struggling as I have. Through perseverance, hard work, and the skills gained from my varied experiences, I am confident that my journey will lead me to succeed and make a positive impact.

This academic year has been especially tasking for my mental well-being. As a sophomore in college who got my own place this fall, it has been tough to achieve a healthy life-work-school balance. Amidst taking heavy credit loads, working as a manager at a pizza place until 1 am every weekend, and taking up a second job as a ceramic technician in the Art Department of my school, while still finding time to enjoy life with my loved ones, I have found it especially difficult to find a consistent schedule that works for me. Working very late 10-hour shifts to ensure I can pay for my schooling and expenses and then having to attend my 8 am classes throughout the week serves to make a sporadic schedule. My hectic college life erected an ever-impeding sense of anxiety. However, I have found that minor adjustments can take off the stress of everyday life as a college student. It is crucial to align physical health to promote mental health. Laying down a yoga mat in my apartment and taking time to stretch feels like it takes the nooks out of life as well as my body. Going on walks with my sisters and enjoying the cool breeze and sun as a break from looking at a screen all day at school reminds me that there's more to life than my strenuous academic career.  It is also important to properly manage time. With juggling a dozen tasks at once, preemptively making a game plan for yourself gives your mind a rest. What works for me is the notes app on my phone, with a folder for relevant to-dos for the current week and bigger-picture projects, like papers and projects due at the end of the semester. Having these notes that I can always look at to figure out what I should be focusing on takes away stress. Another thing I realized this year is that breaks from school, like winter and spring break, should be treated as such. I made the mistake of working 50 hours a week for the few weeks I had my winter break. I was exhausted and I got sick. By the time classes resumed in the spring, I didn't have the energy to put in the work I needed to be caught up. I have so many friends who have taken a semester off to recoup, but some have decided to stay enrolled even when they’re not okay, and their grades tend to suffer as a consequence. When you’re not taking the time for your mental health to be where it needs to be, you get burnt out even may lead to sickness and getting behind in classes. To keep up with everything a college student has to deal with, with it often being the first time they’re living on their own trying to figure out life, alongside school and jobs, mental health priority tend to take a backseat. So, please, take breaks. If you are taking up a huge load, whether you plan on graduating early, or need to work a lot throughout the year, make time to do what's going to make you feel better, like consistent stretching, or walks in nature with loved ones. And do yourself a favor by making a plan to keep up with all the deadlines. But all in all, this time in our lives is a limited one. College doesn't last forever. So keep your eyes on the end goal, but make sure to nurture the mind that fuels your life.

Every artistic creation is a testament to the depths of human creativity and imagination. As artists, we have the capability to express our innermost thoughts and emotions but also contribute something unique to the world. The focus of my work is to give my imagination a playground and welcome the self-fulfilling reward of the process of creation. Currently, in my artistic pursuit of my Bachelor in Fine Arts, I am investigating the beauty and expression of humanity through figures to create a narrative, taking influence from surrealism, impressionism, and landscape painting to create innovative and unconventional compositions. Portraits are reflections of self and humanity, where empathy forms in recognizing emotion and identity. A portrait speaks for itself as an individual on the canvas, inviting viewers to converse. I want to provide insight into my creative process and share the value art holds for me by showcasing a piece I created during the Spring semester of 2024 at North Dakota State University. My favorite piece is an 18x24” oil painting of a girl in a desolate landscape holding up a triangular portal to the viewer, revealing a vibrant other world. My younger sister is the subject of the painting in which the reference is her extending a Dorito chip to my camera. This moment captured her fun personality, where she has yet to provide a serious reference photo for my paintings. Her silly attitude never results in a dull portrait as it allows me to be creative with my rendition. I had never set out or imagined the narrative for this painting, and only through a whimsical, spontaneous moment in trying to capture a portrait reference catalyzed the creative potential. This painting immortalizes a moment and a personality that reminds us there's an inner child in all of us. At its core, the painting serves as a celebration of joy and imagination, a demonstration of the transformative power of creativity to transcend the constraints of reality. The juxtaposition of dark and moody landscape with bright and colorful imagery speaks to the duality of human experience – the interplay between light and shadow, joy and sorrow, and the contrast between youth and adulthood. The portal serves as a metaphor for the endless possibilities that await those who dare to dream and imagine, a reminder of the boundless potential that lies within each of us, even if our environment feels dull, gray, and constraining. My sister's lively spirit and irrepressible sense of play allowed me to tap into my imagination with this creative endeavor. This painting captures not only a fleeting moment in time but also the essence of our relationship – of a lifetime of laughter and shared experiences fueled by the gift of childhood creativity. This whimsical portrayal of my sister holding up a chip is perhaps just the result of my sister’s impatience with my relentless persistence for painting references, or maybe it's just a portrayal of her commitment to her snack, but regardless it is a painting I will hold dear for life. Only through imagination cultivated by child-like wonder can we discover the true essence of what it means to be human.

Art has always been an essential aspect of my life, serving as a medium of expression, an escape to tranquility, and a way to connect with others. From an early age, I discovered that my passion for art defined a part of my identity and also shaped my aspirations. The recognition of my skills in art has been a defining factor in shaping my aspirations and propelling me towards a career in the arts. Ever since I can remember, my artistic ability was often one of the first things people noticed about me. Without even realizing it, starting as a toddler, I was creating compelling compositions with crayons on paper, testing my observation skills through drawing, and developing hand-eye coordination. The encouragement and admiration from my parents and teachers instilled in me a sense of confidence in my abilities. As I got older, my passion for art deepened. I realized being a professional artist was the absolute dream path I could envision for myself. However, I realized I needed guidance and expertise beyond my K-12 education. I set my sights on becoming the first in my family to delve into higher education. My biggest obstacle once I set my sights on pursuing a degree in art was how to pay for college. My parents supported my decision to follow my dreams, but they couldn't financially support me and worried that it would be a waste of money. In my senior year of high school, I submitted my portfolio for scholarships and entered my work into art shows. Through my efforts, I was able to attend my first year at North Dakota State University pursuing a Bachelor in Fine Arts with some financial security. Now wrapping up my second year, I have elevated my abilities in art to a level that my younger self couldn't imagine I'd be at. I'm starting to become one with my craft, primarily through painting and ceramic sculpture. I am forever grateful I took the risk and pursued my dreams right after high school. Without initial scholarship awards to fund college, I fear I wouldn't be pursuing art today. Beyond the act of creating art, art education has allowed me to think more critically and creatively, and the act of creating is synonymous with problem-solving, from the concept to the execution and the presentation of the work. Through my art education, I’ve had exposure to many different art forms and artistic techniques to expand my perspective and skillset. For instance, I’ve immersed myself in the darkroom processes by taking a film photography course, got familiar with different printmaking techniques, and even gained proficiency in graphic design, illustration, and animation platforms. I am excited to continue my art education and even hope to attend grad school with dreams of getting my Master's in Fine Arts. My journey as an artist has been shaped by a deep-seated passion for creativity and a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. As I embark on my academic and professional endeavors in the arts, I am reminded of the transformative power of art to inspire, connect, and enrich the lives of individuals and communities alike. Through art, I strive to leave a legacy that fosters understanding and beauty in the world.

Education is power. And to empower myself, I took that first step last year as a first-generation college student. I am in my second year pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at North Dakota State University. Alongside my education in learning the skills to succeed in a career in the arts, I enjoy creating, spending time with friends and family, volunteering, managing at Papa John's, and being outdoors. I knew I wanted to pursue the arts when I recognized the impact art can have. My art has been influential as a design for Mental Health Awareness month that was printed on hundreds of T-shirts for mental health clinic staff, as public art for the city of Fargo's Utility Box Project, and in events like NDSU's Juneteenth celebration, bringing people together with face painting. Through the education I receive, it is my job as an artist to use my voice to advocate for issues that matter to me. All around us, we can see the impact art has on culture and social movements. I want to be one of these artists that makes a difference with my work on social issues. I'm determined to create a more just and equitable world where everyone has the same access to opportunities. As a part of the Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity fellowship program at NDSU, I am further expanding my impact as a leader in the issues I am passionate about in creating an inclusive community. Everyone deserves to pave their path in life. My ambition in educating myself will give me the resources to help others and make a positive difference in our world. As a first-generation college student, it is meaningful to voice my belief in equal education opportunities. Education is vital, and only when more people can begin to further their education can we thrive as a nation. Our diversity as people make a vivid community, and through equity, we can be strong, successful, and united. Alongside the Arts, I educate myself in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. I have done this by expanding my knowledge with electives in high school, including college-level anatomy, physiology, algebra, and trigonometry. Now in college, I am further diversifying my skillsets in pursuing a Business certificate alongside my BFA. The academic approach of STEAM encourages innovation, growth, and diverse representation in our educational and professional worlds. STEAM interests me because it is the blueprint for making the world a better place, giving power through education to every individual.

Maintaining personal wellness is the most crucial thing you can do for yourself. To finish school, get that dream job, or fulfill any other aspiration, you have to guarantee your body and mind are at their best. Just like you have to change your oil and get new tires for a car, you have to maintain and fuel your body with good sleep and exercise so that it doesn't unexpectedly break down. Neglect to do so could have you metaphorically stranded on the side of the road. Even though we know we NEED to be healthy, it's a strenuous never-ending task learning to take care of yourself. In the topic of health and wellness, a hundred means of action are thrown about: "Get a personal trainer! Keto is the way to go! Superfoods! Calisthenics! High protein! Fasting!" While these health crazes help some in their wellness journey, they don't fit the needs of everyone. To guide others in nurturing their health, I want to share a couple of the easiest and most beneficial ways I have focused on my health throughout my first year of college. I have found that consistent sleep is one of the most valuable ways to maintain my wellness. I value being physically and mentally present in day-to-day life, and it's only possible to do this with good sleep. I focus better in classes and have more energy throughout the day, even when I work until 1 am. Not enough people realize how essential sleep is and are suffering from this lack of attention to the needs of their bodies and mind. It can be difficult to get the sleep you need every day, especially as a college student, when sleep is postponed to study for a test, finish a project, or give time to yourself and friends. However, getting quality sleep every night by going to bed around the same time and shooting for seven to eight hours will lead to feeling well-rested the next day and allow you to focus on priorities. Regular exercise is key to preventing injury and heart disease later in life and helps maintain daily energy levels. As a high school cross country and track athlete, I ran and lifted nearly every day. In college, I still try to go on walks and runs throughout the week as I find it keeps me aerobically fit and serves as a good destresser. A few obstacles I face when it comes to exercise is finding the time. I overcame this by implementing small exercises in my daily life: walking or biking instead of driving, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Health often gets put on the back burner, especially as a busy college student. But wellness must take the utmost priority. Consistency- getting quality sleep and regular exercise- is the first step in giving your health the attention it deserves. I don't want my body to break down, just as I wouldn't want for my car, and luckily, it's up to us, no matter how busy we are, to do that regular maintenance, so we can drive on.

Introducing the Pufferfish Rat: a ceramic creation inspired by the hybrid animal assignment from my ceramics class. This piece is among my favorites from my first year pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at North Dakota State University. This piece demonstrates sculptural and under-glazing painting techniques. But most notably, this piece exemplifies a character and a sense of motion, instilling an emotional reaction from its viewers. This piece explores evolution and examines the anatomical differences between aquatic and land animals. I was inspired by the transition of some Aquatic species developing into Terrestrial animals. However, the silly origin story of the Pufferfish Rat challenges this transition from water to land by adopting the properties of both Aquatic and Terrestrial animals to suit the environment. The origin of Pufferfish Rat comes from sewer rats evolving to have a backside similar to that of a pufferfish, allowing them to swim in the sewers even during flash floods and to expand when threatened to further protect themselves against larger predators in their new more-permanent home of water in the sewers. Through brainstorming dozens of animal combinations, thumbnailing the design, hand-building the features of the Pufferfish Rat with clay, and painting it after a bisque firing with under-glaze, ceramics can be quite a time-consuming creation process. However, this final three-dimensional object occupying space as if it were a real, animate creature gives it more power than a drawing or painting could. Artistic and technical skill brings value to a piece, but an artwork's ability to instill emotion is one of the most valuable effects a piece of art can have. I had no expectations for the responses I would expect, but I have enjoyed seeing the reactions of those who’ve seen the Pufferfish Rat. With the Pufferfish Rat, people have expressed they love it, laughed at the humorous concept, or expressed that it gives them the "creepy crawlies". This piece possesses emotional elements of humor, wonder, and disgust. The Pufferfish Rat sculpture even got into the undergraduate juried exhibition at NDSU, of which artworks had less than ten percent of making it into the competitive show space with over 1000 pieces submitted by students. I am proud of the Pufferfish Rat. It's a Frankenstein's monster type of mesh. It is unusual, animated, expressive, and unforgettable. I am satisfied with the success I found in this piece in creating something fresh and imaginative. Art is personally valuable as it best allows me to express my ideas and showcase my imagination. Since I was young, I loved being creative and telling stories. Now, in art school, I can make these stories matter and share them in my work. I utilize a variety of mediums, subjects, and concepts in my artwork. It's crucial to stay fresh and vary techniques, ideas, and aesthetics in art. If I didn’t dabble in variety, I never would have come to have made the Pufferfish Rat. I always want to adapt my outlook on art making and be able to adapt my skills in a combination of ways. I am constantly exploring new processes and discovering new ways of thinking. I hope to continue to make expressive and unique art like the Pufferfish Rat through my studies in the Arts.

I am most creative on those warm sunny days, where the breeze moves the tops of the trees just enough, and the buzz of bees flying around the garden puts a calming hum in the air. I am inspired by the soft gray of the rabbit over the white snow, a serenity in the cool air that crawls into my lungs. I am inspired by those still evenings when the sun starts to fall beneath the horizon in a brilliant cast of orange streaks, the call of the loon echoing over the glass lake. Nature is my biggest inspiration. This is why I plein air paint, watching the landscape transform before my eyes, the light setting differently than it did 10 minutes ago, as I try to capture the shapes on the canvas the way my eyes read them in person. I recreate nature in many of my paintings, and I am often spiritually moved by the atmosphere of the wilderness. Nature does that to you: it pulls out creativity. While the internet and indoors stifle your imagination and bores your senses with repetition and dull colors, nature enlightens it. Nature refreshes your mind, and becomes a powerful source of fascination, productivity, and spiritual tranquility. Nature offers a lot to learn. It is beautiful and peaceful. It's easy to forget, stuck in our little worlds, going from home to school to work to glued to our devices. But by taking the time to slow down, take a look, listen, a smell, your sense of body and mind begins to be at rest. Nature puts me in a state of mind that allows me to be imaginative, creative, and patient, and my artistic ability comes at ease. For these reasons, nature is my sole inspiration when creating a work of art.

I have submitted an old drawing of mine of a kiwi bird on a mountain of kiwis! What could be more fun?

Hello! My name is Morgan and I am a high school senior at Fargo South High School. Those who know me describe me as quiet, hardworking, and kind. When I'm not running the track (for I am a cross country and track athlete), I'm probably painting or sculpting. Art is my passion-the oxygen to my lungs. In the next few years, I plan to study art to become a skilled and educated artist. My other interests include long-distance running, sports (participating, not watching ha!), reading, writing, cooking, and exploring. Thanks for reading! Hope you enjoyed learning a bit about me!

A motto I remind myself often is that I, and everyone else, is "still growing." When looking down at myself, I remember that I'm still a tadpole: underdeveloped with so many more experiences to have. Despite what happens, I'm still growing. Maintaining a mindset of growth in response to any circumstance is a vital skill to have. We live in a world abundant in changes and obstacles. A small but relevant-to-my-life example of keeping a progress-focused mindset is as a cross-country athlete. For long-distance runners, a race is only the outcome of months of training. Hundreds and even thousands of miles go into a year of running. Because of this time-consuming and very physical commitment, getting into long-distance can be overwhelming. Hence, focusing on progress is so important. When I first started running, three miles seemed like an impossible hurdle. So, I focused on overcoming two, then two and a quarter, then two and a half. Every few blocks I added to each run, though small, was a progression. With some practice, I didn't dread the next milestone. I maintained a mindset to push forward. Though it took time and a lot of trust in myself, I was able to tackle 5ks, 10ks, and even half marathons like they were no problem. Nothing is impossible unless you tell yourself it is. We're all still growing. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves we are. To adapt to change and overcome obstacles, sometimes we just need to tell ourselves to run just one more block. Through a growth-based mindset, we can achieve progress.

Rash decisions- they're are often a point of regret. There is a reason few people preach high-risk, immediate action. Patience allows people to resolve issues in the best-case scenarios. As a restaurant server, it can be arduous to keep my "cool": things get busy, customers start steaming, and the air is sticky with overwhelming provocation. But no matter how easy it is to tense up and fuss, having patience is the only thing keeping me reasonable and the customers happy. It's important to remember that I can only control myself, not the elements around me. Getting things accomplished the right way takes patience. They say Rome wasn't built in a day. If it was, it wouldn't be standing today. We could all be reminded of this lesson every once in a while. The rash decision often isn't the best; we need to take our time to make the right ones.

Paintings tell stories and no paintings tell more engaging and spectacular stories than the work of Salvador Dali. My favorite artist is the Spanish surrealist painter Salvador Dali who conceived an entirely unique art style of his time. I aspire to be an artist who, like Dali, is distinctive in the art world and paints unbelievably engrossing stories.

My name is Morgan Reeder. I am a high school senior from a middle-class family and soon to be a first-generation college student. My parents both work full time, my dad as a machinist and my mom as an administrative worker at an elementary school. My parents are not able to financially contribute much (if at all) to my college education. I have been working part-time ever since I've been 15 to save up for college. I know that any scholarship aid I will receive will help keep my mind off of the money aspect of college and more on the learning side. I plan to work as a fine artist with a degree in fine arts. Attending college wasn't always a goal in my mind. I figured that pursuing a degree it be more expensive than it's worth. What finally changed my mind was watching the talented artists I knew leave high school and never further develop their skills. Creating is the joy of my life. If I graduated and didn't focus on my art, how could I be happy? Putting aside art was not an option for me. I decided studying art in college would be the most beneficial path in guaranteeing my success to become a skilled and educated artist. Now that I've committed myself to studying art full-time, how am I supposed to find time to pay for four more years of education? Luckily, I educated myself on a few ways to avoid college debt. The first thing I did was start applying for scholarships. Local, national, essay-based, resume-based, art and even easy no-essay scholarships were being submitted left and right. Even if the chances of receiving many of these scholarships are small, there is always a chance. There's no way I'd give that chance up. The next thing I did was fill out the FAFSA. The financial aid I may receive from filling out the FAFSA may help me avoid college debt. One of the most significant ways I plan to avoid college debt is by working part-time throughout college. Even if I wasn't planning on going to college, young me was bright enough to realize starting work soon would help me save up a fair sum of cash. As for college life itself, I plan to live at home. Living at home will save me about 40 thousand dollars throughout college. Furthermore, I will buy used textbooks and utilize online resources to save a few hundred dollars each year. College can be an expensive investment. However, by taking the steps I'm already taking, I can avoid college debt.

In a world where depression is more common than ever, it's crucial to find ways to live happier lives. Though not everything works for everyone, I want to share one of the drives in life that fulfill my happiness and that I believe anyone can get into to make themselves happier. The key to the bliss of which I speak is through running. The great benefits of running, the physical and mental, make it an indispensable activity that promotes a healthy life full of happiness. The answer to happiness can be as easy as tying up a pair of shoes. With variation in intensity for all fitness ranges, running is relatively easy to get into, and for humans (notorious creatures of habit), it's easy to maintain through practice. Physically, it's good for the heart and lungs. Running improves your aerobic and anaerobic endurance. I think there's a lot to learn about becoming a stronger person through running. But, at this moment, I enjoy recognizing that what I'm doing now to keep my body healthy will allow me more precious time with my family and friends decades from now. I want to touch on the many mental benefits of regular running since a clear mind enables for a blissful life. Jogging grants alone time with your thoughts and a few moments to solve internal conflicts and tensions. In this way, jogging is a sort of universal self-lead therapy. For me, this time for self-reflection is personally the most valuable component of jogging. The icing on the cake is that all of the time focused on yourself while out on the road enables you to love yourself. In short, establishing a jogging routine comes with many physical and mental benefits, promotes a happier life for me as it can for anyone.

Throughout time, the media has been full of ideas concerning ways to live longer and healthier lives. In this neverending discussion, some have outrageously declared a few odd methods to living forever. Why seak the fountain of youth when you could swallow a few mercury pills? Unfortunately, mercury pills, as the first emperor of China found out, will cut your life shorter rather than lengthen it. I hold a less-questionable belief that living actively through regular jogging will lead to an extensive and prosperous life. The great benefits of running, the physical and mental, make it an excellent activity that promotes a long, healthy life. The answer to longevity can be as easy as tying up a pair of shoes and stepping outside. With variation in intensity for all fitness ranges, running is relatively easy to get into, and for humans (notorious creatures of habit), it's easy to maintain through practice. Physically, it's good for the heart and lungs. Running improves your aerobic and anaerobic endurance. Moreover, running, though a physical sport, has mental benefits as well. Running allows you to be alone with your thoughts and solve internal conflicts and tensions. In this way, jogging is a sort of universal self-lead therapy. The icing on the cake of running means all of the quality time focused on yourself while out on the road enables you to love yourself. In short, establishing a jogging routine comes with many physical and mental benefits, promoting a longer and healthier life for anyone seeking the key to longevity.

The painting I am about to describe depicts a group of struggling runners on a dark background. Each of these individuals is shown with something that is degrading their quality of life. This piece represents the physical, emotional, social, and mental struggles we go through as people. These burdens weigh us down, but we still have to finish our race. This painting is one I had started in April of 2020. I wanted to paint something that meant something to me, something that held more purpose than the colorful, happy portraits and landscapes I'd previously worked on. I believed that this painting, in particular, would have soul. Yet after just starting to develop my concept and paint the first of the figures, I put down my paintbrush. The canvas sat on an easel for a few months before being exiled to a dusty shelf. Days and weeks and months went by that I looked at that painting and couldn't bring myself to finish it. In the year 2020 entirely, living productively was difficult, but this painting was one of the most punishing obstacles I struggled to overcome. Once school started, things started to feel normal. I began to feel a bit more like myself. I dug that canvas back out one day and stirred up a new palette. With this new sense of motivation, I worked for many strenuous weeks to get the painting completed. To this day, this painting is one of my more prideful. I love this piece of work. I relish it because its portrayal of the struggle to overcome hardships granted me to reveal the burdens I face in my life as an artist. Without that recognition and self-awareness, I would not be able to further advance my art in the way it has.

The bonds we form with one another are the most memorable part of our lives. The companionship we share with others creates an unreplicable support system that helps us achieve great things. Friendship not only describes a relationship but also fair, beneficial treatment of one another. Friends don't have to fret about differences or worry over breaks in trust. Instead, friends help one other climb stairs that at first seemed too steep. Some friends we'll have our whole lives, standing by us through every decision and hardship. Others will come and go, but even this limited relationship can be just as worthwhile. Even considering how self-motivated individuals are in their goals, friendships are ever valuable assets in life. Friends are uplifting in the darkest of days. They push us when we need mentorship. They help us reach our potential and express ourselves. Maybe most importantly, friendship offers the binding glue to hold ourselves together. Without these companions, nothing's left to prevent us from falling apart. Friendship is an essential element of our lives.

This piece represents the physical, emotional, social, and mental struggles we go through as people. These burdens weigh us down, but we still have to finish our race. This painting is one I had started in April of 2020. I wanted to paint something that meant something to me, something that held more purpose than the colorful, happy portraits and landscapes I'd previously worked on. I believed that this painting, in particular, would have soul. Yet after just starting to develop my concept and paint the first of the figures, I put down my paintbrush. The canvas sat on an easel for a few months before being exiled to a dusty shelf. Days and weeks and months went by that I looked at that painting and couldn't bring myself to finish it. In the year 2020 entirely, living productively was difficult, but this painting was one of the most punishing obstacles I struggled to overcome. Once school started, things started to feel normal. I began to feel a bit more like myself. I dug that canvas back out one day and stirred up a new palette. With this new sense of motivation, I worked for many strenuous weeks to get the painting completed. To this day, this painting is one of my more prideful. My focus is to create more pieces that speak larger volumes. Furthermore, I plan to continue to render and perfect my techniques. Next year, I will study art at one of my local colleges and pursue a degree in fine arts. All in all, creating is what I want to do. I look forward to all the struggles I will have to face in my career because if the result makes me as proud as this piece does, all will be worth it.

The thought of college was always something I'd shied away from. There's no way I'd be able to afford to go into higher education, even after working throughout all four years of high school. I told myself it'd be easier to dive right into a full-time job as soon as I graduate. I didn't have high hopes for my high school economics class either. Learning about the economy seems so dull-what could I ever take away from it? At my school, Fridays in my economics class are reserved for personal finance. We take part in a mock stock investing game and play around with investing calculators. On one of these Fridays, my teacher remarked that buying stocks and investing in real estate isn't the only way to become a millionaire but that the easiest way was to invest in savings. My teacher pulled up his Roth IRA account and explained that after only ten years of investing into retirement, the cumulative $60,000 he had put in turned into $140,000. The night after my economics teacher had shared his low-effort cumulating wealth, I dived into researching how to start my own retirement savings and how I can maximize the interest return on my current savings account. I can go to college if I want to and I don't have to work long hours for years to pay it off. By investing carefully and consistently, money won't be an issue at or even before retirement. The easiest way to make money is to invest in your future by putting away a little bit each month into savings.

Without leadership, there is no possibility for future individual or societal prosperity. I find myself mentoring those around me in my day-to-day life since, frankly, a world without leaders is a world of disorder. I work at a restaurant, and from experience, I can confirm that the lack of a proper manager prevents business from going smoothly. By showing others how to do their job well, not only does it further their understanding of their field, but it also benefits the entire workplace. In my eyes, the most significant role of a mentor is that by teaching and supporting, their leadership commences the self-expression of others. As a cross-country captain at my high school, I've noticed that the best thing a leader can do is to support those around them, especially younger kids. I'm not by any means a social butterfly, but simply serving as a cheerleader for someone who needs it can help anyone open up and find their voice. In cross-country, even when our races don't go the way we want them to, supporting my teammates is often the simplest and most appreciated mentorship I can provide. The world needs leaders. In teams and the workplace, mentorship is vital for individual prosperity. The little support we can provide can make a world of difference in both one person and in our society as a whole.