For many, pursuing a college education is motivated by giving back to one's family. This page shines light on situations in which family plays a key role in college readiness and success.
Rise Above*CW: this project mentions violence and abuse*
Mersadyz Morales is a fourth-year Biology major. She chose poetry as her creative medium because it is something that she has always held dear to her art. It is a way for her to not only express but to also process her feelings in a thoughtful way. "I felt it was my job to break the toxic cycle that runs in my family. I was trying to convey the message that no matter the obstacles that are put in your way, or no matter the struggles you may face, you can accomplish anything you set your heart on. You do not have to let your past define you. I feel a lot of people who don't grow up in the best situation, feel obligated to stay with their family or will allow their family to continue to drag them down, but that does not have to be the case. No one is obligated to become a product of their environment." |
Sika laengThis drawing is my own contribution and participation in the overall project.
I only recently decided to try my hand at digital art at the beginning of shelter-in-place orders. In some ways, I find it easier than painting or actually drawing because it feels much more low risk. It is a very forgiving art, but also allows easy experimenting! The name of the image is "Sika Laeng." It depicts my mother's hand that is always in red polish. The words around her hand say "Sika Laeng" which comes from a phrase that my mother always says to me: Sika laeng ti pag asa mi. This basically translates to You are our only hope. Growing up, my family and I have experienced so much hardship though my mother never felt or showed defeat. Every time my mother sends me back off to school, she reminds me that I am my family's only hope. It is something that I always keep in mind during everything I set my mind to, and I think of it especially now as I graduate. |
Photo source: https://unsplash.com/photos/SuUcdMePhgU