Growing up in Rock Valley, Iowa’s small, conservative town, gave me a unique perspective on life and creativity. With a population of less than 3,000 and a class of 50, I was always labeled “the musical one” or “the creative one.” I never really considered myself artistic or creative because I always associated art with drawing; however, the older I’ve gotten, the more I’ve learned that art comes in many forms and is everywhere around us! Art for me started in fifth grade when I picked up the saxophone. I quickly fell in love with music, going on to play five different instruments by my Junior year. I was involved in anything and everything music-related, not only in school but outside as well. My band and choir teacher were huge inspirations for me growing up; however, through them, I learned that I did not want to do music as a career. 

Art then came to me in photography. I started falling in love with photography at the age of 14. I took pictures of anything and everything; as time passed, I developed my style. I love creating unique scenes and capturing images that get people to talk. For example, I once covered a model in sand and glitter at a beach; this idea has won me multiple awards! It is through photography that I discovered I wanted to go into design. I was very nervous that I would not be good in this field simply because I could not draw. 

However, proven for a third time art is not just about drawing. I love coming up with ideas and watching them come to life; that is as much art as anything else. I have learned so much about design, art, creativity, and myself through this career path. I can not wait to see where I go from here.