Journey Through Creativity by Isabel

Journey Through Creativity by Isabel - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school years, I have always been passionate about art and design. I knew from early on that I wanted to pursue a career in graphic design, which is why I have set my sights on attending John Brown University. However, the journey has not always been easy. One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my junior year in my Advanced Placement (AP) Art class.

Art has always been a way for me to express myself, but the AP Art class was on a different level. We were required to create a portfolio of 24 pieces, which was a daunting task. Each piece needed to reflect a theme and demonstrate a variety of techniques and mediums. I was excited but also overwhelmed by the pressure to perform at such a high level. My GPA was 3.9, and I wanted to maintain it, but I was struggling to balance this demanding class with my other responsibilities.

The challenge really hit me when I realized that my initial theme was not working. I had chosen a subject that I thought I was passionate about, but halfway through the year, I found myself uninspired and stuck. My art teacher noticed my frustration and suggested that I reconsider my theme. This was a tough pill to swallow because it meant I had to start over on many of my pieces, and time was running out.

At first, I was resistant to change. I had invested so much time and effort into my original concept that the thought of starting over was terrifying. But I knew deep down that my work was not my best, and I wanted to create something I could be proud of. So, I took a step back and spent some time reflecting on what truly inspired me.

I decided to switch my theme to something more personal and meaningful to me: the concept of growth and transformation. This theme resonated with me because it mirrored my own journey through high school and my aspirations for the future. With this new direction, I felt a renewed sense of energy and creativity. I was excited to explore different techniques and mediums, such as watercolor, digital art, and mixed media, to bring my vision to life.

To manage my time and stay on track, I created a detailed schedule that broke down the remaining months into smaller, manageable tasks. I set weekly goals for myself and made sure to allocate time for brainstorming and experimentation. This approach helped me stay organized and reduced the overwhelming feeling of having to complete 24 pieces.

I also sought feedback from my peers and teachers, which was invaluable. Their perspectives helped me see my work in a new light and pushed me to refine my ideas further. I learned to embrace constructive criticism and use it as a tool for growth. This experience taught me the importance of being open to change and the value of perseverance.

By the end of the year, I completed my portfolio, and I was proud of the work I had done. I had not only met the requirements of the class but had also created pieces that truly reflected my growth as an artist. This experience taught me that challenges are opportunities for growth and that sometimes, the best work comes from pushing beyond your comfort zone.

This academic challenge also reinforced my desire to study graphic design at John Brown University. I am eager to continue exploring my creativity and developing my skills in a supportive and inspiring environment. I believe that my experience in overcoming this challenge has prepared me well for the rigors of college and the opportunities that lie ahead.

In conclusion, facing the challenge of my AP Art class was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of pursuing what truly inspires me. I am grateful for the experience because it has made me a stronger student and a more passionate artist. I am excited to bring this determination and creativity to John Brown University as I pursue my dreams in graphic design.