“Do what you love, love what you do.”
        Have you ever thought about your hobbies? Is it a sport? Maybe it is a sport you have participating in since Pre-K? Well, my hobby is painting. For those who know me well, they know I am not one to just pick up a sketch book and begin painting. I don’t have the best artistic abilities, but I think that my painting skills have grown. This semester, I decided to enroll in an Introduction to Painting class. As it was completing a general education requirement, it was also a great excuse to start painting. I have only painted two other times in my life: finger painting when I was very young, and again when I was a sophomore in high school. Â
               I began my art course with no expectations on my ability to paint. I hadn’t done it in years and haven’t picked up a paint brush since. I was worried of my ability, but was also really excited to learn the different ways to paint. To me, I do not view my art class as a requirement, but more as a new-found hobby. Art is a great way to show your own creativity, and experience different hobbies.
               It may sound a little cliché, but one of my favorite artists is Vincent Van Gough. Ever since I was in 1st grade, my art teacher showed me the world-famous “Starry Night” masterpiece. I based a couple of my paintings off of Vincent Van Gough’s unique style of using quick, and small brush strokes, creating detailed and beautiful scenes.
               I always found that art is a great form of distressing. I always seem to lose my emotions and feelings in a piece of art. Art is one the greatest ways to express one’s self. I always suggest to people investing themselves in their hobbies is a great way to open their minds to new things.
               If I found my hobby through a Gen-Ed requirement, how can other people across campus find their hobby?
               Exercising is a great way hobby. It allows your mind to release endorphins, relax the mind, and stay in shape. St. Ambrose offers a lot of great programs like yoga, Zumba dance class, and most recently, your own personal trainer! If you were more interested in meeting new people, join or start a new club! St. Ambrose offers so many great clubs that are filled with fun and welcoming people. St. Ambrose and the Quad Cities offer a lot of exciting and fun things to do with your roommates and close friends!Â