We asked some of the brightest folks from within the community to reflect back on their days in school and to share with us a story of when they learned a particularly important or impactful lesson. We’ve shared highlights below.

Kara Admire

I met my business partner in Architecture school at CU Denver – where we both learned a number of important lessons. Perhaps the lesson most pertinent to KaraKara Blooms was learning how to consider every aspect of the finished product from the inception of the design and throughout the design process. Read more>>

Dr. Shaq Anthony

One of the most impactful lessons I learned in college was understanding that purpose is not a destination but rather a journey. Purpose can be seen as one dimensional when in fact it is multifaceted, meaning purpose unfolds in many different ways. This lesson was pivotal in my understanding of my gifts, my talents, my hardships, my struggles, my wins, and my lessons (because we never lose, we Just learn). Read more>>

Yan Shao

Hi, my name is Yan, and I am currently a second-year student in the illustration practice program at Maryland Institute College of Art. Prior to attending MICA, I earned my undergraduate degree in illustration from the School of Visual Arts in 2022. Read more>>

Alfredo Sanchez

The most important lesson I have learned in my scholar career is to persevere through all emotions and feelings to complete what is needed and to do it with the best of your availability for the maximum result capable. I used to be a pre-med student. My goal was to become a physician. I completed all prerequisites to become a doctor. Read more>>

Emily Haugh

The most important lesson I learned in school is every person has gifts, but many people aren’t able to see their own; I believe it is the job of educators and other influential adults to help our young people see what is unique about them and what they are capable of. I came to this lesson through my own experience. As a high school student, I would define myself as incredibly average. In my mind, nothing made me extraordinary in any way. I did well in school, but never phenomenally. Read more>>