The concept for the photo series is self-reflection. I asked my peers a series of questions focusing on their evolution and growth since entering college. The portraits are taken in front of a mirror with a differing reflection to illustrate how we present ourselves and view ourselves at times differs from how other people see us.
I want to tell the unique stories of the students at Christopher Newport. In life, we all experience challenges and learn, which helps to make us better individuals. My goal was to celebrate the different perspectives and unique experiences students have gone through to make them who they are.
Through this project, I have gained insight and admiration for each of my fellow classmates’ journeys and growth.
Ayla Colon '23
How have you changed since you entered college?
"As a freshman I only kept to my roommates. Now I talk to so many people, attend different events on campus, and actually eat alone in the dining hall without feeling weird about it. I also learned to advocate for myself in professional and academic ways."
Shagan Gatewood '23
How have you changed since you entered college?
"I’ve matured a lot both emotionally and with my decision-making process. Plus, working on campus and being at school during Covid gave me a different perspective on what I wanted out of my education.”
Ava Harvey-Butler ‘23
How have you changed since you entered college?
“I have had an untraditional college experience and CNU is the third school I have attended. In comparison to where I was at 17 years old as a freshman at VT, I have gone through so much self love and overcome times where I did not want to continue. Through it all I have learned that I am capable of anything and I will accomplish the goals I have for myself.”
Victoria Jenkins ‘23
What do you want most in life?
“I want to help people. I want to help create a world that can sustain nature so others can enjoy it. Focusing on trying to find solutions to help others environmentally makes me happy.”
Christina Richardson ‘25
What do you wish others knew about you?
“That I struggle a bit with self-confidence like everyone else. Many think I am overly secure and confident just because I am involved in a lot, but it’s difficult for me to live up to my own standards.”
Jonathan Short ‘23
How have you changed since you entered college?
“I’ve learned to love and appreciate myself more. As I continue to develop as a person, I still take the time to appreciate things about me that make me unique. Doing so makes me more confident to unapologetically be myself. The more true I am to myself, the better I feel.”
Nate Wild ‘23
What do you want most in life?
“To always be surrounded by love in any of the forms it may take.”
Ayla Zwak ‘23
What do you wish others knew about you?
“I wish people would know that I’m pretty sensitive. I can be vulnerable, but would never express it.”