Seeing Every Student: Sophia Tlustotch’s Mission for Inclusive Education
As a child, Sophia Tlustotch felt invisible in a system that wasn’t built for her. Struggling with a learning disability, she often faced frustration in classrooms where her needs were ignored. “It felt like I was constantly trying to keep up in a race I wasn’t ready to run,” she said, recalling how her teachers dismissed her struggles. Without the tools or resources that she needed to thrive, Sophia’s confidence dwindled, but her determination to create change grew stronger. These early experiences are what shaped the mission that now drives Sophia's career goals.
Now a senior at the University of Oregon, Sophia has turned her challenges into a passion for inclusive education reform. During her junior year field experience, Sophia saw firsthand how personalized teaching transforms students. One moment that stood out to her was when a usually quiet and withdrawn student lit up during a math lesson with colorful visual aids and hands-on problem-solving. “I could see the spark in their eyes,” she said. “That’s when I realized the power of individualized support.”
Sophia’s professors and hands-on learning experiences at UO have solidified her vision for inclusive education. It’s not just about policy changes, she explained, but about creating classrooms where every child feels valued. “I know what it’s like to feel invisible,” she said. “No child should experience that.”
Salt and Straw Campaign Mock
This is a mock campaign for the ice cream brand “Salt and Straw”. The point of the campaign is to turn the American brand global and attract more international consumers, starting with Italy.
Artistic Heritage: A Photo Story
Located in the EMU on the University of Oregon campus, the Craft Center is a creative haven for students pursuing various types of art. Among its many resources, the ceramics studio stands out as a favorite, offering everything needed to explore ceramics and pottery.
This photo story follows Haele Sato, a Senior at the University of Oregon and a dedicated volunteer at the ceramics studio. With a decade of experience in practicing and teaching ceramics, Haele brings her Japanese heritage into her art, striving to create pieces that are authentic to traditional Japanese ceramics.
Captured in these images, Haele demonstrates her mastery on the potter's wheel, shaping a vase with skillful hands. She uses a sponge with water to keep the clay malleable, explaining that this technique reduces friction and prevents cracking. The story concludes with Haele meticulously trimming the vase's base, showcasing the intricate process of creating beautiful, functional art.
Through this visual narrative, I attempted to celebrate the artistry and cultural heritage that Haele brings to the Craft Center, inspiring fellow students and highlighting the resources available at the University of Oregon.
