For my self(study)ie, I chose to incorporate the various environments I place myself within for schoolwork or where I find peace. Like everyone else, there is a sense of individuality within these spaces, but there are many of the same objects used by students across the world. When I am working, there needs to be some sort of background noise or music to fit my mood for that day or night.  The main image I began with is a record from one of my favorite hardcore bands; they pressed this beautiful blue vinyl, and I had to capture that for this project.  The use of color played a large part in why I chose specific images and really set the tone for the environments within those photos as well.  Along with music, I need coffee at all times.  Due to my school and work schedule being so strange, I am rarely home to do homework, so I am usually at a coffee shop or if it is late at night, at my favorite bar.  When I feel overwhelmed or stressed, plants and baking take over my free time.  I have an obsession with plants. Sitting in a room surrounded by them or walking through a nursery is very calming. As for baking, it is an exact science, so this process is relaxing and allows me to reset my mind.  Finally, I incorporated my computer at the kitchen table with an empty plate, because I do not have a desk, and if I am doing homework chances are, I am also eating.   

When we shared as a class, I noticed how unique each of our environments were, but also how similar each one was with repeated materials, technology, coffee, and music, all playing roles in each place. Many of us found refuge in music and color. Many of our pieces were related to colors that we find relaxing or spend time creating an ambiance within our spaces in order to relax and study efficiently. I think this reveals a lot about who we are as students and how we struggle to find peace within our hectic lifestyles and attempt to balance all of our responsibilities and meet due dates.  This project can be introduced in secondary classrooms for students to think about another aspect of who they are as a student and think about the rhythms they have to be in before they can study efficiently.  I say secondary because of how difficult it can be to work with these programs and mesh all the files together or edit to your heart’s desire.