How Arts Education Changed My Life For as long as I can remember, the arts have been a part of me. As a child, I would spend hours doodling in class and drawing in my free time, captivated by the magic of creating something from nothing. Growing up in Los Angeles, a city alive with cultural diversity, I was surrounded by art in all its forms—vibrant murals, eclectic music, and stunning architecture. But what truly made the arts a cornerstone of my life was my father, a musician whose passion for his craft instilled in me an appreciation for creativity and the power of self-expression. This foundation in the arts only deepened as I pursued my education. In high school, I joined the architecture program, where I spent three years studying design and drafting. My teacher, Mr. Kahlenberg, was an alumnus of ArtCenter College of Design and a mentor who taught me to see design as more than technical skill—it was a way to tell stories and solve problems. His belief in my potential inspired me to dream big, and now, years later, I’ve come full circle as an MFA student at ArtCenter, pursuing graphic design with the same passion he helped spark. In college, my understanding of the arts evolved further as I explored fine arts at the University of California, Irvine, earning a BFA in Art. My mentor, Antoinette LaFarge, played a pivotal role in shaping my artistic identity. She taught me that fine art and design weren’t separate worlds—they could coexist and even enrich each other. Through her guidance, I learned to blend the conceptual depth of fine art with the practical, communicative power of design, creating work that is both thoughtful and impactful. One project that epitomizes this blend is SUSTAIN., an eating disorder recovery app I designed during my MFA program. Inspired by my personal journey, I created a brand that feels empowering, using bold, intentional design choices to foster a sense of resilience and hope for users. This project was deeply personal, reflecting my belief that art and design are not just tools for self-expression but also vehicles for connection and change. Each stage of my journey has been shaped by incredible mentors and the lessons they’ve imparted. From my father’s music to Mr. Kahlenberg’s design wisdom and Antoinette LaFarge’s innovative perspective, I’ve been fortunate to learn from people who believed in my potential and pushed me to grow. Their influence has helped me embrace my unique blend of fine art and design, giving me the confidence to tackle ambitious projects and challenge conventions. Arts education has been transformative in every way. It has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of thinking outside the box. It’s given me a voice, a purpose, and the ability to create work that inspires others. Winning this scholarship would be an incredible honor, allowing me to continue exploring the arts, pushing boundaries, and creating work that reflects my passion for self-expression and positive impact.

What Creativity Means to Me Creativity, to me, is about transformation. It’s the ability to take personal experiences, even the difficult ones, and turn them into something meaningful that can inspire or help others. My project, SUSTAIN., an eating disorder recovery app, perfectly represents this philosophy. SUSTAIN. was born from my own recovery journey, a time that required resilience, vulnerability, and hope. I wanted to create a brand that felt empowering and uplifting for others on their own paths to healing. Using bold red tones, I aimed to evoke urgency and strength, qualities essential to the recovery process. The distinctive typeface I chose reflects diversity and growth, symbolizing the various experiences of those navigating recovery. Every element of the design was carefully crafted to foster a sense of support and resilience, making users feel seen and understood. This project was not just an exercise in branding—it was deeply personal. Designing SUSTAIN. challenged me to reflect on my own journey and use those reflections to create something larger than myself. It was a way of turning my vulnerability into a tool for empowerment, a tangible resource for those who may feel lost or alone. Through SUSTAIN., I discovered that creativity is most powerful when it’s authentic and intentional. For me, creativity isn’t just about creating beautiful designs—it’s about making work that resonates, sparks conversation, and drives change. I want my designs to provoke thought, challenge norms, and make people feel seen. In a world that often prioritizes efficiency over imagination, SUSTAIN. represents my commitment to using creativity as a force for good. It’s about transforming challenges into opportunities, breaking down stigmas, and fostering connection through design. This project embodies my belief that creativity isn’t just a skill—it’s a way of thinking, feeling, and living.

The memory of Chris Struthers, whose passion and creativity continue to inspire, resonates deeply with me as I navigate my journey in graphic design. His legacy underscores the profound impact that art can have on individuals and society. This scholarship presents an opportunity to honor his memory by supporting emerging designers like myself, whose work is fueled by a similar dedication to creativity and expression. As a Hispanic woman in the graphic design field, I am particularly motivated to break barriers and pave the way for other female designers. My passion for graphic design extends beyond mere interest; it is a driving force in my life. At ArtCenter College of Design, my studies and projects have allowed me to explore the transformative power of visual communication. Each project reflects my commitment to creating designs that are both meaningful and impactful. One of my notable projects is "SUSTAIN.", an eating disorder recovery app designed to offer support and education to individuals affected by eating disorders. This project is deeply personal and stems from my own experiences and commitment to mental health awareness. Through "SUSTAIN.", I strive to provide a compassionate and informative resource that integrates user-friendly design with essential educational content, reflecting my dedication to creating positive change through design. Another significant project, "UNHOLY REMAINS," is a packaging design for a heavy metal beverage product. This project allowed me to experiment with bold and unconventional design elements that reflect the unique aesthetic of the heavy metal genre. By combining striking visuals with innovative design techniques, I was able to push creative boundaries while achieving commercial objectives. This project highlights my commitment to exploring diverse design styles and crafting visually compelling solutions. Additionally, my brand collaboration poster installation with Brain Dead and Planned Parenthood represents a significant intersection of art and activism. This installation showcases my ability to collaborate with prominent brands on projects that address important social issues. The posters blend artistic expression with advocacy, demonstrating my belief in using design as a tool for fostering dialogue and supporting meaningful causes. Art and graphic design are vital in shaping our world, offering avenues for personal expression, societal commentary, and visual storytelling. Despite their importance, art degrees and careers often face undervaluation, which can deter talented individuals from pursuing their dreams. Chris Struthers’ legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the need to support and nurture artistic talent. By continuing to create and innovate, I am committed to contributing to a more inclusive and vibrant design landscape, honoring his memory through my work. Receiving this scholarship would provide invaluable support for my growth as a designer. It would enable me to focus on developing my skills, pursuing impactful projects, and engaging in professional development opportunities. Furthermore, this support would empower me to mentor and inspire other aspiring designers, sharing the knowledge and experiences that have shaped my journey. In summary, my passion for graphic design and commitment to meaningful artistic expression align with the values embodied by Chris Struthers. This scholarship would be a significant step in advancing my career, allowing me to continue creating impactful designs and making positive contributions to the design community. I am honored to apply for this scholarship and to honor Chris Struthers’ legacy by carrying forward his spirit of creativity and dedication while breaking barriers in the design field.