As I approached the end of high school, I knew two things for certain: I was going to become a professional artist and I was going to college. What I didn’t know was exactly how I was going to get there. I dreamed of attending an art school, immersing myself in a creative environment that would help refine my skills and launch my career. But as much as I wanted to take that leap, leaving home for college simply wasn’t an option due to physical limitations.
The next best step was to find a local university that could provide me with a solid art education while accommodating my needs. This is the story of how I found my way to Loyola University New Orleans and began my journey as a fine arts major.
The College Search: Triumphs and Trials
I started my search by touring the three main universities in New Orleans: UNO, Tulane, and Loyola. Each campus presented unique challenges and ultimately helped me narrow down my options.
UNO: A Rainy Day and a Hard Decision
The day I toured UNO, the weather decided to put my plans to the test. As luck (or misfortune) would have it, the skies opened up, and it poured. The campus flooded, and I quickly realized how difficult it would be to navigate in my electric wheelchair during such conditions. It was a tough realization because UNO would have been the most affordable option for my family, and it has a great design program. But after that rainy day, I knew it wasn’t the right fit.
Tulane: Beautiful but Impractical
Tulane’s campus was next on the list, and I was excited to explore its beautiful grounds. However, it didn’t take long for me to recognize another challenge: the sidewalks. They were uneven and broken in many areas, making it nearly impossible to navigate smoothly. The campus itself was sprawling, which only added to the difficulty.
I vividly remember turning to my dad halfway through the tour and saying, “There’s no way I can do this every day for the next four years.” That was the end of Tulane for me.
Loyola: The Perfect Fit
When I arrived at Loyola, it was immediately clear that this campus was different. Although some of the sidewalks weren’t perfect, the school had a manageable layout, and the administration was willing to accommodate my needs. They even worked with me to ensure my classes were scheduled in accessible locations, minimizing the need to trek across campus.
While the art building at the time left much to be desired—it needed more than just TLC, maybe even a bulldozer—the strength of the fine arts program and the incredible professors won me over. Loyola offered the combination of accessibility, education, and support that I needed to thrive.
Starting My Journey as a Fine Arts Major
In 2007, I officially began my classes at Loyola as a fine arts major, but due to practicality, I switched my major to graphic design in my sophomore year. I realized that there is a reason the term “starving artist” exists, and I simply wouldn’t be able to physically produce enough art to financially support myself once I graduated.
The program exceeded my expectations, and the faculty became an integral part of my growth as an artist and designer. The challenges I faced in getting to that point made me appreciate the opportunities even more.
Today, Loyola’s campus has improved significantly, with better sidewalks and enhanced facilities. But even back then, it was clear that this was the place where I could build the foundation for my career as a professional artist.
Reflecting on the Path Forward
Choosing a college wasn’t just about finding the right program—it was about finding a place where I could pursue my passion without being held back by physical barriers. Loyola provided that space for me, and I’ll always be grateful for the support and opportunities it offered.
Looking back, the journey to becoming a professional artist wasn’t always easy, but it was worth it. Every challenge helped shape my determination, and every decision brought me closer to where I am today.
Final Thoughts:
For anyone navigating similar decisions, my advice is simple: focus on what matters most to you, and don’t be afraid to advocate for what you need. Your path might not look like everyone else’s, but it can still lead to something extraordinary.