Which community college are you currently attending?
San Diego Miramar College
Which program are you pursuing and what about the subject intrigues you most?
I am a Studio Art major. Creating art has been a constant in my life and is a huge part of who I am today. It was the process that I fell in love with. It felt rewarding to be vulnerable to my emotions and then get it out in a painting. The process of being able to create something that wasn’t there before became more than just a hobby. Painting with watercolor made the process that much more beautiful to me. When I paint, I can let the watercolor take control. As the painting begins to dry it goes through many layers and stages that make watercolor such a unique and special medium.
What are your education and career aspirations?
I aspire to work with art as a form of therapy. Art therapy is such a powerful tool to heal trauma. I want to be able to help folks with their understanding of their trauma(s) with the use of art.
What is a fun fact about you that few people know?
I have two cockatiel birds who keep me company. Birds have so much character so it has been really rewarding fun taking care of them. One of the birds likes to sing thought the day, it's always fun watching him dance as he sings. I just got two bunnies who are super sweet and playful. I've always loved animals growing up so it is amazing to be able to have them in my life.
What is your favorite book/movie/song and why?
My favorite book is Fahrenheit 451. I read this book in high school for English class and it's always stuck with me. The book has a great story to it and there is great depth with the characters. My favorite thing about this book was how poetic it all was. There is a lot of symbolism which I've always appreciated.
What is your current favorite streaming binge and why?
I love watching Youtube videos! There are so many great content creators and creatives on youtube. I learned everything I know about running an Etsy shop from watching these videos. I also love learning about different art mediums such as resin, guache, or preserving flowers. Now that learning is remote, I resort to youtube videos to learn about painting techniques for my classes.
In your spare time, what do you enjoy doing?
I am always creating art during my spare time. I opened my small art business when COVID hit and since then it's been keeping me on my toes. I have gotten many hobbies since such as preserving flowers and lino block printing. Preserving flowers makes me feel connected with nature. I love seeing the transformation of the flower from when it's growing to when I press and dry it. Colors and forms change but the same flower remains.
How are you practicing self-care during this difficult time?
Practicing self-care during this time has been a challenge for me. Some of my favorite things to do are going for morning walks, letting myself take days off, and getting myself some art or handmade candles from my friends' shops. Supporting my friends' art is always rewarding. The whole experience of getting 'fun' mail always gets me excited. Candles are so comforting and always get me in the right state of mind. Lastly, I've been trying to start my mornings with some yoga or basic stretching. I learn most of my yoga stretches with the help of youtube videos.
How are you adjusting to remote life and what are your tips to stay motivated?
It has definitely been a big change in my day-to-day. I try to keep a planner so I don't fall behind on school work, and setting reminders on my phone has been a huge help in remembering zoom call meetings. I've been enjoying cooking a lot more and trying out more ambitious recipes. My motivation comes from reflecting on my growth and celebrating my wins. I learned that keeping a journal of these things will help with staying motivated.
As a Point Community College Scholarship Recipient, what is your message to other LGBTQ+ students?
You can do anything you set your mind to. Be your own number one fan. By loving yourself and accepting your whole self, you inspire others to do the same. I'm proud of you.
This post’s responses were submitted by Point Community College Scholarship Recipient Inji Jaber (She/Her/Hers).
Jaber is currently pursuing a degree in Art at San Diego Miramar College. Read more about Inji here.