In Her Own Footsteps

VI

That winter in 2021 marked the pinnacle of Aanya's college journey. During this time, she achieved remarkable success. She had several amazing internships, exhibited her photos twice, and a published photo book. Aanya received the joyous revelation that she would graduate a full semester earlier than anticipated. To further embellish her list of accomplishments, she managed to secure an exceptional job offer even before the semester reached its conclusion. Aanya felt like she was living in a dream. After three and a half years since arriving in the United States, Aanya would finally savor the life she had envisioned: one filled with success, achievements, independence, and employment.

On that significant Thursday, December 9th, 2021, Aanya made her way toward the art gallery nestled in downtown Williamsport. The esteemed venue had served as her college's premier exhibition space. This day marked the final studio session for the semester. It was where the senior art students had congregated twice a week over the past four months. Within those walls, they had meticulously prepared for their thesis show and sought critiques from fellow students and professors each week.

As Aanya leisurely strolled towards the gallery, skillfully maneuvering around icy patches on the sidewalk. She felt a sense of tranquility. With the news of her early graduation, she had hosted her own senior show, just two days prior. It was the culmination of her college journey. This studio session held a symbolic significance for her, marking her last day in the studio and her farewell to the professors. Although she felt sympathy for the rest of the students who would continue to toil for another semester, she was giddy at her own prospects. The life she had long anticipated and yearned for was now within reach. She eagerly anticipated its imminent commencement.

Time seemed to slip away swiftly as two hours flew by. Gradually, each remaining senior took turns showcasing the culmination of their semester-long efforts. Aanya actively participated in the discussions, sharing her insights while consciously ensuring she didn't overstep any boundaries. Among the esteemed art faculty present, Aanya was delighted to see her favorite mentor, Andre. He had acquired a few wisps of gray hair since their initial encounter. Aanya felt a deep sense of gratitude towards him for his unwavering guidance and support throughout her college journey.

The studio session concluded. Sam, the head of the painting department, invited all the students and faculty members to assemble in a circle within the expansive gallery space. A sense of anticipation filled the air as everyone gathered around. In his opening remarks, Sam expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the students. He commended them for their dedication and hard work throughout the semester. He acknowledged their creative achievements and encouraged them to continue exploring their artistic endeavors even during the upcoming winter break. Sam emphasized the importance of constant practice and urged them to use the time off to further develop their skills and produce more remarkable work. His words resonated with the gathered students, who were inspired to continue their artistic journeys beyond the confines of the studio.

"... and congratulations to Aanya on graduating early. Aanya will sadly not be joining us next semester." He added and began clapping. The rest of the faculty and students followed in the applause.

He was immediately followed by Andre, beaming with pride as he announced,

"Aanya has also accepted a job offer from a prestigious company. She will be on the art team, aiding with model photoshoots and editing."

"... and on a remarkable solo exhibition," Added Eden, the professor of art history, joining the chorus of congratulations.

The room erupted in further applause and admiration for Aanya's professional opportunity. Aanya felt humbled by the acclaim she received on her journey. The collective joy and support from the faculty and students filled the air, creating a memorable and uplifting atmosphere in the gallery.

Following the announcements and celebrations, the students started gathering their belongings, preparing to leave the gallery. Conversations and laughter filled the air as they chatted with one another, discussing plans for the upcoming break. The camaraderie among the students created a lively and bustling atmosphere as they made their way out. Aanya the trail of classmates towards the exit, overhearing the lively interactions happening around her. She couldn't help but feel a pang of loneliness. She was not close enough with anyone to join in. The lack of friendships during her time in college had left her feeling isolated. The once-strong connections she had formed had faded away, leaving a void in her social life. She remained focused on her own thoughts. Graduating early held the promise of new beginnings and the opportunity to meet other like-minded people.

With the night already casting its dark veil, Aanya made her way to the nearby bus station. The warmth of her professors' recognition still enveloped her. She was eager to tell Connor all about it when she got home. Aanya had already moved out of campus. She lived with Connor for the entirety of the semester. The dorm room she had secured remained untouched, a symbol of her aversion to the loneliness that haunted her on campus.

As Aanya waited at the bus station, her thoughts wandered back to the memories she had accumulated during her years on campus. While the social aspect of college had been a challenging experience for her, she had found her stride academically. The recollection of diving headfirst into ambitious art projects filled her with a rush of excitement. She reminisced about the dedication and passion she poured into her creative endeavors. The vibrant images of art galleries she had visited in New York and Lancaster danced in her mind, each visit fueling her inspiration and broadening her artistic horizons. The camera that faithfully hung around her neck provided a sense of security and purpose, capturing moments and freezing them in time. It was a chapter of her life that had shaped her in profound ways.

While the social aspect may have left a void, the academic and artistic growth she experienced would forever hold a special place in her heart. Aanya couldn't help but acknowledge the bittersweet feeling that washed over her, knowing that she would miss the vibrant energy and transformative journey that came with changing her major from writing to photography.

Aanya contemplated the impending return of her beloved camera. A wave of fear washed over her. The thought of parting with the camera struck her with a sense of unease. It had been her faithful companion for nearly two years. Without a camera, she would be without a means to express herself through her art. Aanya felt vulnerable at the thought. She was uncertain about her creative future. The prospect of purchasing a new camera seemed daunting, considering the steep price tags that accompanied decent equipment. They often started in the range of a couple of thousands of dollars.

Aanya's graduation brought forth a mix of emotions. She feared that her artistic drive would be stifled in the face of her upcoming transition into independence. The anticipation of moving to a new city, immersing herself in a demanding new job, and facing the financial responsibilities of renting, weighed heavily on her mind. The reality of these impending changes suddenly felt overwhelming. Aanya hoped to find a way to continue pursuing her passion. As she made her way home, doubt crept into her thoughts, casting a shadow of uncertainty over her future artistic endeavors.