Hi I'm Soph! I am a senior at UTampa double majoring for a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Art (with a focus in photography) and a BA in Design I am a multimedia artist, so I work across various mediums to make sculptures, paintings, sculptural-paintings, and even conceptual work! I love what I do more than anything, and feel very lucky to have my own studio space in the Ferman Center, where I get to work and build my portfolio before applying to grad school

Hometown

From Seattle, Washington USA

Major(s)

Double major: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Art (focusing in photography), BA in Design

Clubs, organizations & involvement

I am a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS), an invite only honors society for high achieving academics. I am also very involved within the UTampa Art Department... I have had several works displayed within the University's Scarfone Hartley Art Gallery over the past three years, and was awarded an Honorable Mention in this past year's juried exhibition; specifically being called out for my strong work ethic and commitment of time. I have worked off campus as a muralist with my University peers, participated as a live artist during performing arts (dance) exhibition, and I promote my art and commissions among the UT community.

Describe your college experience

My college experience started off a little bit rocky since it was covid-era and I had just moved across the country... but with time I found my people and settled into the environment here very well, maybe more so than I ever expected. In college I have been able to dive deep into my interests and figure out how I want to focus them into a career. The friends I have made here will be for life, and many of the experiences I've had have changed me irrevocably and for the better.

Tip for future students

The biggest tip I have, corny as it may sound, is to really just be yourself and move with confidence. Looking back at when I first started at UT, I wasted so much time and energy feeling anxious or worried what people's perceptions of me might be. I have definitely learned how to feel more confident, and with that I have attracted true friends and allies. I would also say take advantage of the services and support that are available here, even​/​especially beyond just academic... there are pretty much resources for any problem you may have here!

Favorite class

My favorite class by far has been Advanced Studio. I am taking it for the third time right now over the summer. It is essentially an independent study across any and all mediums... I have made everything from paintings, to sculptures, and even conceptual work. It's very rigorous but worth it, especially since we get our own studio spaces to work in and house our art!

Career goals

After I graduate I am planning on getting my masters in Tech Arts or Themed Experience and am actually looking at applying to schools in Europe! From there I hope to continue as a freelance artist while also stepping into prop-making and set-dressing as well as applied technical effects.

Ideal way to spend a free night

In the studio painting with my friends in the neighboring cubicles, listening to music with snacks and coffee​/​energy drinks! We're expected to put a lot of hours in, but we also love what we do, and we find ways to make it fun even when it drags or gets stressful

High school or secondary school

Eastside Preparatory School, Kirkland, King County, Washington, USA

Previous college

N​/​A