Southwestern College Santa Fe, NM
Returning to My Roots: Embracing the Mission of Transforming Consciousness Through Education
As I stepped back onto the familiar campus of Southwestern, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. It felt like just yesterday that I was a new graduate student in the Art Therapy and Counseling program, soaking up knowledge and expanding my horizons. Now, as the new Enrollment Services Coordinator, I find myself reflecting on the transformative journey that brought me back to this vibrant community—a place dedicated to “Transforming Consciousness Through Education.”
A Journey of Growth
I began graduate school at Southwestern in 2013, and like many, the decision to attend graduate school marked a pivotal moment in my life. Looking back, I am filled with such fondness for my time as a student here. It was a time filled with late-night art making, insightful discussions with peers, and deep dives into the subjects that fueled my passion for Art Therapy and Sex Therapy. Since then, my journey has taken me through various professional landscapes, but the essence of what I learned here has never faded. The core values of the school—fostering critical thinking, self-awareness, and a commitment to social change—have been my guiding principles.
Now, as I return to the institution that shaped me, I am excited to contribute to a mission that resonates deeply within me. Education is more than just acquiring knowledge; it’s about fostering consciousness, nurturing empathy, and igniting the potential for change.
A Renewed Commitment to the Mission
As the Enrollment Services Coordinator, my role is to bridge the gap between prospective students and the transformative experience our school offers. Each interaction is an opportunity to share the vision of education as a catalyst for personal and societal change. I am dedicated to ensuring that every prospective student understands not just what we teach, but why we teach it—how it can empower them to think critically, act compassionately, and contribute meaningfully to the world.
This mission is especially relevant in today’s fast-paced, often fragmented society. Education has the power to unify, to inspire, and to elevate consciousness. By guiding students through the enrollment process, I hope to help them see the profound impact that an education at Southwestern College can have on their lives and the lives of others.
Building Community
Returning to my graduate school also means re-engaging with the vibrant community of faculty, staff, and students who share a common purpose. I look forward to collaborating with colleagues who are just as passionate about our mission as I am. Together, we will continue to create an environment that encourages open dialogue, critical inquiry, and personal growth.
Connecting with prospective students is another exciting aspect of my role. I want to ensure that they feel the warmth and support that I experienced during my time as a student. Each story we share, each question we answer, and each dream we nurture brings us one step closer to transforming consciousness—not only for individuals but for the broader community.
Looking Ahead
As I embark on this new chapter, I am filled with hope and determination. I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment that welcomes diverse voices and perspectives. I believe that everyone has the potential to embody the change they want to see in our world, and my goal is to help facilitate that journey.
In returning to my graduate school, I am not just revisiting my past; I am actively participating in a mission that transcends time. Together, we can inspire a new generation of thinkers, doers, and changemakers.
Here’s to new beginnings and the shared journey ahead!
About the Moderator
