10 Years of Media Arts Magic: My Last In-Person Class (for now)

As the school year ends, I find myself reflecting not just on my Intro to Media Arts students' creative achievements but also on the bittersweet reality that this is my last time teaching in person at the college. It’s been an honor to work with such wonderfully creative individuals, and while I hope to continue teaching asynchronously online, I know I’ll deeply miss the in-person interactions that make teaching so special.

This year’s Photoshop projects were truly inspiring. Students began by repairing old photos, breathing life into worn and faded memories. They then flipped the concept, transforming modern photos to look antique. A highlight was our exploration of daguerreotype photography. Students captured portraits of each other and used layers and blending modes to recreate the haunting beauty of 19th-century imagery.

Another favorite project was the double-exposure self-portraits. Using layer masks, students combined their portraits with images that represented their personalities, passions, and aspirations. The results were as unique as the students themselves—each piece a deeply personal work of art that showcased their technical skills and creativity.

These projects remind me why I love teaching: seeing students embrace challenges, express themselves, and grow into confident creators. Teaching in person has allowed me to witness those “aha” moments and foster a connection with these amazing individuals.

While I look forward to continuing to teach online, I’ll always treasure the memories made in the classroom. To my students: thank you for your creativity, passion, and inspiration. You’ve made this final in-person class truly unforgettable.