Kassandra Esparza

Civic Media MA

What made you choose Columbia?

The new Civic Media graduate program drew me to Columbia. I felt that it brought together my background in design and my passion for community engagement.

What do you plan on studying during your time here?

I am a part of the Civic Media masters program. I have been learning how to engage with different communities to solve social issues using various types of media.

What are your career goals at this time?

My goals are to work with local non-profits, organizations, or individuals to help elevate the voices of people of color. I also plan to explore my own cultural identity using the tools gathered from being a part of this program.

What do you most look forward to learning and creating in Chicago?

I am eager to tap into the rich culture that surrounds the city. There are so many amazing things that are going on various neighborhoods and I would love to see how I can find my own space within them.

How do you see your artistic practice engaging with current events?

I have taken an individual introspective look into the set “norms” that I have lived up to this point of social distancing. Personally, I am exploring different avenues of healing, self-care, listening and engaging. My hope is that I can gain a better understanding of myself as a woman, creator and a Latina so I can then use that insight to create even more powerful, impactful experiences.