Keion Smiley
Ciara Lewis is a 21 year old senior from Brooklyn. She is a Studio Art major who is finishing up her last year, feeling very inspired and involved on campus, being the president of two organizations and more on this campus. Miss Lewis sat down with us and gave us a little taste of what her life is like.
Ciara Lewis showing off her painting of a burger.
Hornet: Can we get to meet the woman behind the face? Where were you born and what was your upbringing like? Who has been the greatest influence in your life that has impacted the woman you are today? What about your family?
Ciara: I was born in Brooklyn Hospital and raised in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Growing up was pretty different, but good I guess. Even though I lived in the hood, I usually chilled outside of it and going back and forth to my mom and dad’s houses was pretty annoying. My art teachers influenced me the most in my life, because other than being my teacher, they treated me as one of their own and showed that they cared about my well-being. My family is cool and different as well. Coming from two backgrounds (Trinidad and Jamaica), I appreciate and love the beauty in our cultures.
Hornet: Can you tell us of your education history and what your goals or life ambition was when you were a student in High School or College.
Ciara: I attended Brooklyn High School of the Arts (BHSA), majoring in art for 9th and 10th grade. Then my mother moved out here, in Delaware, so I attended Dover High School for 11th and 12th grade, but continued to go to NY on the weekends for my art classes and on breaks. Since high school, I wanted to open a business that united the youth, pushed them to stick to their passions, and would spread positive change in the world.
Hornet: Can you tell us of your job/education experience prior to attending Delaware State University? What was the most memorable point at that school?
Ciara: When I was in 9th grade, I interned for my neighbor who was a fashion/event coordinator, etc. (just all these great things in one). Now she has a non-profit organization called “Golden Thread Society,” which I still intern with today. The experience from this internship opened my eyes more to different types of art worlds and helped me develop connections with many artists (performing, fashion, cosmetology, etc.)
Miss Lewis doing community service at Conrad.
Hornet: Is this where you thought you’d be 5 or so years ago? What informed your decision on doing what you’re doing now?
Ciara: 5 years ago, I didn’t expect to be in college, because I decided that I didn’t want to go anymore. I like learning, but I don’t like school, especially learning things that I feel are unnecessary and unrelated to my career path. My mother told me that I had no choice but to go to college after high school because I was 17 and a minor lol. In Delaware, we had to pick a school in the area, so I chose DSU because it was a little familiar to me.
Hornet: What are your plans for the future?
Ciara: My plans are to be successful in the future. No matter what I do, I have to spread my creativity, love, and positivity with the world, especially with my art. I have to leave a mark on this world, knowing I did something positive and touch the hearts and minds of many people.
Hornet: What kind of advice would you offer a student, who is undecided on his or her career path?
Ciara: Advice I will give a student unsure of their career path is to stick to their passions and the things that make them happy. A lot of people are unhappy with the jobs they have and give off negative energy at work. If you are doing something that you love, your job wouldn’t feel like a job and you’ll gain positive success while fulfilling it.
Hornet: How would you describe the state of higher education in America today?
Ciara: People and some businesses say we need a GED or degree in order to have a great job or to get hired period, but I don’t agree with that statement. A lot of people became successful without a diploma or degree and sometimes, those with one, are still left without a job after graduation.
Hornet: Have you ever travelled outside of the United States? Where, and how does life outside compare to that in the US?
Ciara: Yes, I’ve travelled to Trinidad for multiple Summers when I was younger. I love being back home, from the air to the fresh food to the culture there. A lot has changed since I was younger, but I will be returning next year. Things in America are more hostile and unhealthy and just negative, from people’s attitudes to the processed foods to the corruption the government and white supremacists make.
Hornet: What does the future hold for America?
Ciara: I try to think positive, but in all honesty, the world is dying and humans don’t care as much as they should, especially in America. America is either going to end up at war or in debt.
Hornet: Are you interested in politics? If no, why not? What is your take on the state of politics and the future of the American democracy?
Ciara: Politics aren’t one of my interests, so I don’t follow them, especially because we are told a lot of lies.
Hornet: What are your hobbies or extracurricular activities? How would you describe your philosophy of life? That is, how do you see this life and what principles get you grounded and moving forward?
Ciara: My hobbies are cooking, singing, traveling, and anything art-related to be honest. Life is literally what you make it. We all have control over ourselves and the resources surrounding us. We just have go take upon ourselves to push ourselves and live to the best of our capabilities.
Hornet: Let us end this interview with a memorable quote from you. How would you describe yourself to the world? Complete the sentence: I am…
Ciara: I am a unique creative that wants the best for everyone and hope they conquer what they seek.