Storytelling as a Catalyst for Change: Nadia’s Passions for Art, Fashion, and Language
Ever since picking up a book about fashion design in third grade, Nadia A. has seen fashion as a way of storytelling and showing someone’s true self to the world. A senior at Spring Creek Community School, a CollegeBound Initiative partner, she is looking forward to studying fashion design and marketing in college. Nadia has also demonstrated leadership outside of the classroom, from participating in an Aspen Challenge competition to educate her community about the impact of climate change to serving as a student ambassador at Student Leadership Network’s (Em)Power Breakfast last fall. She sat down with us to share about her journey.
Q: Our Student Leadership Network community would love to hear more about your experiences. What are some of your interests and influences?
Arabic is my first language, and I grew up helping my mother translate things into English. My older sister has a beautiful, melodic way of telling stories in Arabic, using words to paint figurative motifs. We keep talking about writing a book together, where she does the Arabic parts, and I’ll write the English translation. It might not be a surprise to hear that my favorite class right now is AP Literature.
Q: How did your interest in art and fashion start?
I love sketching and drawing in my free time. I read a book in third grade about fashion design, and I really believe in the idea of fashion as a way to express identities and be inclusive. I’m interested in studying fashion and marketing or business for college.
Q: What are some ways you prepared for senior year and the college process?
I’ve been meeting with Ms. Wendy Brown, our school’s director of college counseling, since junior year. She knows what she’s talking about and is always ready to answer my questions every time I stop by. I’m also an OppNet Fellow, which is a program I participate in for additional college and career exposure. I have family members who have gone on to college and some who have not, and I knew this would be the path for me.
Q: What has the college application process been like so far?
I’m really excited about the college process. Ms. Brown is simply awesome. She’s the best thing that’s happened to this school. I started my college essay in my junior year, and we worked on my brag sheet, supplemental questions, and recommendation letters. I’m putting together my art portfolio and worked with Ms. Brown on early college applications. With her guidance, I’m applying to colleges with strong fashion, marketing, and business programs.
A talented artist, Nadia decided to draw a piece of art for Ms. Brown to show appreciation for her support during National Counselors’ Week in February 2025. Her artwork is shared below, and the artist statement is reprinted with Nadia’s permission:
This drawing is a tribute to Ms. Brown, who has been an essential guide in preparing us for the next chapter of our lives. The birds flying toward the light represent the hopes and dreams of every student she supports, moving forward with purpose and clarity. The light symbolizes the direction and opportunities Ms. Brown helps us see, while the clouds around it reflect the challenges and uncertainties we might face along the way.
Just as the birds find their way through the clouds, Ms. Brown ensures that we are ready to navigate our own paths—whether that’s college, trade school, or entering the workforce. This piece is my way of expressing gratitude for her guidance, which has made all of us feel confident and prepared for the future.
