Daily life in Europe

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Worldwide | Tuesday, November 8, 2011 | 4 photos

I am pleased to submit my work to the 2011 National Geographic & WorldNomads.com Travel Photography Scholarship.

Growing up, my parents were not able to afford the same privileges for me and my brother. Both my parents were refugees who struggled to find their place financially and culturally in American society. This became especially difficult after my father was diagnosed with lupus, a disease that causes the body's immune system to attack itself. My mother struggled to make ends meet as the sole provider for our family through the years. This was an adversity I continue to face today, and one that inculcated in me a profound interest, perseverance, and passion to pursue my interests.

I have been fortunate, and especially lucky, to capture the eye of several people who took the time to help cultivate my artistic curiosity and appreciation for our experience and role in the built and unbuilt environment. The opportunity to win this scholarship would allow me to showcase perhaps some of many micro events that are often neglected in daily life. For me, photography is a gateway that tells a story which addresses a larger construct, and that can be used to help identify and begin conversations that potentially lead to solving the social, political, and cultural problems of our greater community. The series of photos I've submitted are a small reflection of these daily micro events in my trip to Europe.

Thank you for your time and consideration in reviewing my application. I would be honored to participate in this experience.