Moore College of Art & Design is more than an academic pursuit, it’s a deeply personal journey to me, a place where I discovered not just artistic skills, but the courage to embrace my evolving self.

My narrative is inextricably linked to the immigrant experience. Like countless families, mine crossed oceans from Taiwan in pursuit of the elusive "American dream." Their sacrifices, their aspirations, were all for a future they envisioned for their children. Yet, that vision rarely encompassed the arts. My heart, however, found its voice in the stories whispered through art, the silent narratives of history captured in moving images, brushstrokes, and sculpted forms. I chose to major in art history because it serves as a mirror to humanity, reflecting our shared emotions and diverse perspectives across time and cultures. Through these historical narratives, I sought not only to learn about the past, but sought solace in understanding how my identity aligned, finding my place within the vast tapestry of human experience.

Moore marked a pivotal confluence of my personal and academic journey. I vividly recall Professor Jack Thompson, in Design 101, labeling me a "rebel" after seeing my project. Unbeknownst to him at the time, I was wrestling with a profound identity crisis, caught between "Wendy," the name I've frequently adopted in America, and "Anwei," my Mandarin birth name. This felt like an impossible, reductive choice. Moore, however, became a sanctuary, a space where I could finally explore these facets of myself, and for once, let these complexities of mine breathe. Choosing "Anwei" at Moore was a defiant act of reclaiming my heritage, a declaration of my authentic self.

Moore fostered an environment where I could explore the nuances of my identity, where I could understand that my experience was not defined by a simple binary. I learned that my identity is a rich tapestry, woven from the threads of my cultural heritage, my personal experiences, and my evolving understanding of myself. I was allowed to dismantle some of the rigid walls that had confined me. The nurturing environment at Moore, a testament to the dedication of faculty and peers, provided a refuge where I could explore, experiment, and learn without fear of judgment. This was invaluable during moments of doubt, when navigating life in the creative field felt daunting. Their support gave me the confidence to venture beyond my comfort zone and embrace artistic risks. I’ll always be grateful for Belena Chapp, Director of the Career Center, whose unwavering encouragement to develop and exercise my resilience was and still is truly empowering.

The creative career, as I’ve learned, is a beautiful, chaotic dance. It is not linear and is often marked by unexpected detours as well as moments of profound discovery. This inherent unpredictability, mirroring the very nature of the creative process, has cultivated within me a deep sense of courage. In a world increasingly driven by algorithms and automation, the act of creating, and creating with one’s hands feels like a quiet rebellion, a reclaiming of our human essence. Art schools like Moore, with their abundant opportunities for artistic freedom, provide the space to embrace this rebellion, to find purpose in the tangible act of making. It's not just about the finished product; it’s about the vulnerability and courage required to bring it into being.

In essence, Moore has been a transformative experience, a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. It has taught me the importance of courage and resilience in the face of uncertainty, the beauty of embracing my multifaceted identity, and the strength found in unconditional support. The lessons I’ve learned at Moore extend far beyond the classroom, shaping my understanding of myself and my place in the world. As I move forward, I carry with me a deeper understanding of who I am, and the conviction that my identity is indeed more than the east and the west, it's a living, breathing work of art.