Comfort Corner
~ Katherine Boese
What I took away from this project is not only how willing people are to help, but also how comforting it is knowing people are in your corner. Synclaire Warren and Bea Mendoza offered advice, guidance, and encouragement during our meetings, easing the nerves currently being felt by many soon-to-be graduates as we embark on the daunting job-searching process. It’s going to be okay…it’s all going to work out was a concept they both reiterated to us in almost a copy-and-paste manner that made it feel true. Neither of them knew what direct direction they were going after graduation, yet they both found their way by standing true to what they believed in and loved to do. Their passion for their work was evident, and I think that’s a testament to not selling themselves to a job for the sake of a paycheck. Yes, we all need money, but it’s motivating to know that it can come to you in a form that both drives and thrives you artistically.
Synclaire said something that I will probably carry with me for the rest of my life: “You belong in every single room you are in.” We talked extensively about how, especially as women, we underestimate ourselves and sell ourselves short for not being everything a job or position calls for. I came out of that meeting so inspired and encouraged to go for the opportunities that I may naturally feel are “beyond” me, and instead, embrace them as something I believe I am capable of.
While meeting with alumni was inspiring, so was meeting with fellow undergrad students. They were enthusiastic and excited to be included, which further solidified the importance of community in the art world. Together, we exchanged numbers and Instagram handles as a way to stay in touch and encourage each other along our artistic endeavors. We spoke out our fears, dreams, and ideal lives while laughing about the inevitable obstacles and possible pitfalls. They asked their questions about senior year and the capstone class, which was interesting because I would have loved to have someone answer such questions when I was a junior/sophomore. Yes, this was technically a required project for the Capstone class, but it ended up being genuinely meaningful and helpful for me, and I hope that it’s something that continues in the Creative Writing program here at Fordham. It’s a project that can transcend out into the real world and offer a safety and home for artists of the Fordham community.