Rachael Young '23 began her journey at St. Ambrose University in January 2022, armed with an associate's degree and a wealth of life experiences. Her decision to enroll at St. Ambrose was a choice made as a single mom who could not leave the Quad Cities area.
Though her options for a college education were limited, Young found St. Ambrose was exactly where she was meant to be.
"I gained so much self-assurance and confidence here - defending my work, defending my papers, studying on my own, and taking independent study courses," the double major in art history and art and design said. "That was huge for me because I was able to teach myself and have confidence in what I learned."
Her professors too played a role in bolstering her confidence and helping her find a sense of belonging.
"My teachers, each one of them, helped me to grow as a person and to integrate back into life after the pandemic," Young said. "I met a lot of people here I can trust. I made a lot of friends for life."
As her confidence grew, so did her art. Through an independent study course, Young explored the historical significance of quilting in America as a means of survival for women. She uncovered stories of resilience, where quilts served as symbols of support for victims of domestic violence and as guides for those traveling along the Underground Railroad.
"These historical ties to the art of textiles inspired me," Young reflected. "The result of this research is presented in my senior honors exhibit."
From April 29 through May 17, Young's art exhibit, "Intertwined," was on display in the St. Ambrose Catich Gallery. It showcased a variety of works including paintings, glasswork, and quiltwork. Through her exhibit, she metaphorically weaved together fragmented pieces of her past, transforming them into poignant reflections of her emotional journey.
For Young, each piece in her exhibit serves as a tangible reminder of the emotions she experienced during its creation. Her artwork, she says, is an extension of herself, allowing viewers to glimpse into her past and connect with her on a deeper level.
Young, who graduated in December 2023, is preparing to embark on the next phase of her academic journey earning a Master of Museum Studies from Western Illinois University.
