Student Projects Displayed Through Liberal Studies Student Showcase 

The 2023 Liberal Studies Student Showcase was held on Thursday, May 4, at the Bronco Student Center in Orion. During the student-led event, liberal studies students presented examples of their scholarly and artistic work to fellow classmates, faculty, administrators and Cal Poly Pomona community members. This inaugural in-person showcase occurred in conjunction with the launch of the 2023 Liberal Studies Student Virtual Showcase, which is now exhibiting more than 60 examples of student work across a wide range of courses in the liberal studies program. 

The Liberal Studies Student Showcase is a Signature Polytechnic Experience (PolyX) that provides students with an opportunity for recognition and professional skills development through the presentation of their service-learning and project-based work that integrate the department's organizing themes of creativity, social justice/social responsibility, sustainability and wellness. This year, over 60 liberal studies majors participated in the showcase with projects ranging from video productions and visual artwork to Senior Capstone research papers.

One of the highlighted projects was “Lopez Urban Farm Service-Learning” by Monica Rivera, who discussed her experience at Lopez Urban Farm in Pomona, while completing her service-learning hours. She explained that growing organic foods creates a more sustainable earth and also provides fresh nutritious foods that can be accessed by the community.

Rivera said, “Through my liberal studies education, I have been able to receive a deeper understanding of sustainability and wellness through service-learning. I have also been able to include my grandchildren in many aspects of my education, which proves to me, that I am moving in the right direction in providing them with a better future. My grandchildren will know how to make a difference for the betterment of the environment and their future communities.”

Another highlighted project included “Shattered” by Natalie Layseca in which Layseca created an image that was inspired by her liberal studies class reading “Ways of Seeing” by John Berger.

“My liberal studies education has taught me how each of the four organizing themes, which includes sustainability, social responsibility and social justice, creativity, and wellness, impacts not only my community, but society as a whole,” said Layseca. “I have learned how to advocate for others through several mediums, while also learning how to take care of myself.”

Following student presentations, liberal studies alumni discussed their careers and graduate school education. They also offered tips to current students. 

Alumna Fabiola del Villar said, “One piece of advice that I got from my dad is don’t be afraid to ask questions or to ask for help. I think that is such solid advice for school, in your job, with your peers and any place. A lot of times we are afraid to ask questions but at the end of the day, there are so many people who are willing to help you and all you have to do is ask.”  

Another alumna, Callie Arcand, said, “One piece of advice my dad gave to me was to apply for jobs even if you don't think you are qualified. You may say I don't think I have the experience, or I don't think I have the GPA, but you may surprise yourself and end up with someone who's willing to give you a chance.”  

Following the alumni panel, the event ended with closing remarks.   

According to the event coordinator, Liberal Studies Assistant Professor Jeff Roy, this year's event doubled in participation compared to the 2021 Liberal Studies Student Showcase. 

"I am moved by the response we received from students, faculty and staff alike about the event," said Roy. "Student leaders across the liberal studies program––helmed by the incredible Lorelei Claxton, Natalie Layseca and students from my LS 4211 "Arts in Action" course––put their hearts into shaping this incredibly dynamic and poignant community-building event, the first of its kind after more than three years. I am captivated by the creativity, hard work, and determination of our students, and I cannot wait to see this program flourish in future years."

The 2023 Liberal Studies Student Virtual Showcase is currently on view at www.cpp.edu/ceis/liberal-studies/student-exhibition.