Meet a Shocker: Lydia Humphreys

Lydia HumphreysCourtesy photo
Lydia Humphreys will continue working on a Visiting Artist Grant with 鶹ƽ Area Sexual Assault Center after graduation, while looking for a full-time job.

Lydia Humphreys is a graduate advisor at ShiftSpace Gallery, a student-run art gallery in downtown 鶹ƽ. Her experiences there played an important role in her education and time at 鶹ƽ State University.

Lydia is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2022 graduation. Learn more about their time at 鶹ƽ State and what is next for the grad

Hometown

Joplin, Missouri

Degree

My Degree is a Master of Fine Arts with an emphasis in painting.

What made you want to attend 鶹ƽ State?

I had several previous undergraduate professors attend here. ShiftSpace Gallery was a big incentive, as I love student galleries.

How are you feeling leading up to graduation?

I'm so excited to be done with school and I'm excited to get started with my future career.

What was been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?

As a student, my biggest challenge was overcoming societally induced self-doubt. During my graduate experience, I did so much research and listened to so many feminist speakers that I feel more adequate understanding the challenges I face as a queer individual.

What has been your most helpful learning experience at 鶹ƽ State? 

My most helpful learning experience has been through the work I did at ShiftSpace Gallery. I gained so many local connections and friends while learning leadership/managing skills, grant writing, getting involved with my local community, and so much more I could write you a paper.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I will continue working on my Visiting Artist Grant with 鶹ƽ Area Sexual Assault Center, while looking for a full-time job.

How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect your time at 鶹ƽ State? 

Covid-19 was hard as a graduate instructor, but I learned so much more about accommodating students according to their needs, and transforming my class structure to benefit the whole rather than the standard.

What advice would you give other 鶹ƽ State students?

My best advice for future students is to understand your limits, as this was a big learning curve for me, and accommodate your schooling experience to those. Your well-being is the most important thing you have in life.


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