Shatha Alrashdan

Why FSU?

As an educator, my ultimate goal is to provide my students with a comprehensive understanding of the arts and to illustrate how art can serve as a valuable asset to society. This focus is precisely what I have discovered in the Department of Art Education at Florida State University, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue my education here. The knowledge and tools that I will acquire during my studies at FSU will enable me to make significant contributions to this organization and its objectives. I am committed to utilizing my education to become a valuable member of this community and to pass on my passion for the arts to the next generation of learners.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

For me, motivation stems first and foremost from my role as a mother to my daughters. Since becoming a single parent, I have been acutely aware that my success directly impacts the success of my children. They are my constant source of inspiration and support, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead by example and demonstrate the value of hard work and perseverance. However, success to me extends beyond simply earning a degree; it is about gaining knowledge and experiences that can be applied to real-world situations. This belief is what motivates me to actively engage in my classes each day, knowing that the skills and insights I acquire will serve me well in my personal and professional endeavors.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

As an experienced educator with over twelve years of teaching in Saudi Arabian universities, I understand the importance of the connection and relationship between teachers and their students. I recognize that teaching is not simply a profession, but rather a mission that requires dedication, empathy, and a commitment to fostering a positive and engaging learning environment. When it comes to the role of the arts in the curriculum, there are numerous benefits to be considered. Art education can help students develop their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential for success in a variety of fields. Moreover, incorporating the arts into the curriculum can provide students with an outlet for self-expression and emotional regulation, which can be particularly beneficial in the context of a stressful academic environment. Art education can also be an effective tool for fostering social and emotional learning, helping students to develop their empathy, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills.

Career aspirations

The arts play an essential role in society, and arts administration is critical to ensuring that the arts flourish and reach their full potential. Arts administration includes managing and supporting arts organizations, including galleries, theatres, museums, and other cultural institutions. The role of arts administration is to communicate the unheard voice to achieve social justice through the arts, whether they are plays, exhibitions, and other arts organizations, whether for-profit or nonprofit.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

To anyone with ambition, I encourage you to persist despite the obstacles that may arise. These challenges are integral to the process of achieving success, and the sense of fulfillment that comes with it is immeasurable. Postgraduate study should be viewed as a holistic life experience, rather than a mere component of it. The investment of time, energy, and dedication in pursuing advanced education is one that pays dividends in the long run. As a proud graduate student at Florida State University, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities that have been afforded to me in furthering my academic pursuits.