Courtesy photoLydia Humphreys is a graduate advisor at ShiftSpace Gallery, a student-run art gallery in downtown Wichita. Her experiences there played an important role in her education and time at Wichita State University.
Lydia is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2022 graduation. Learn
more about their time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad
Hometown
Joplin, Missouri
Degree
My Degree is a Master of Fine Arts with an emphasis in painting.
What made you want to attend Wichita State?
I had several previous undergraduate professors attend here. ShiftSpace Gallery was a big incentive, as I love student galleries.
How are you feeling leading up to graduation?
I'm so excited to be done with school and I'm excited to get started with my future career.
What was been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?
As a student, my biggest challenge was overcoming societally induced self-doubt. During my graduate experience, I did so much research and listened to so many feminist speakers that I feel more adequate understanding the challenges I face as a queer individual.
What has been your most helpful learning experience at Wichita State?
My most helpful learning experience has been through the work I did at ShiftSpace Gallery. I gained so many local connections and friends while learning leadership/managing skills, grant writing, getting involved with my local community, and so much more I could write you a paper.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will continue working on my Visiting Artist Grant with Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center, while looking for a full-time job.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect your time at Wichita State?
Covid-19 was hard as a graduate instructor, but I learned so much more about accommodating students according to their needs, and transforming my class structure to benefit the whole rather than the standard.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
My best advice for future students is to understand your limits, as this was a big learning curve for me, and accommodate your schooling experience to those. Your well-being is the most important thing you have in life.
