Then and Now

I cut my teeth at SLCC as a junior, leaving high school at lunch every day for concurrent enrollment. I was a drama kid and photo nerd who loved psychology and art history. I didn't really have many friends in high school, and I clicked with the college kids in my art classes. At 17, I just wanted to follow my own creative path and take the classes I was interested in.

I went on to run SLUG Magazine, which covers Salt Lake's underground art and music scene and community subcultures. A few years later, I started the nonprofit Craft Lake City and launched our DIY Fest as an alternative art's festival that celebrates Utah's creative community. Craft Lake City is about spotlighting local artisans, STEM makers and young entrepreneurs; it also inspires those who don't identify as creatives to seek that artist within.

Through SLCC's Miller Campus I participated in Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business program in 2013. It changed my life. It allowed me to see myself as a leader and gain the confidence I needed to take risks and grow my businesses.

"And don't dismiss yourself—give yourself a chance. Nine out of 10 times, you can do it."

Advice

Get as much experience as possible in classes, internships and through volunteering—even if you don't know how it is going to turn into a money-making career. Follow the areas that inspire you and make you feel alive. Work with individuals who are doing things that interest you so that you can determine if it truly is a fit for you. And don't dismiss yourself—give yourself a chance. Nine out of 10 times, you can do it.