Meer served as a Youth Arts Education Council Leader before heading off to college, where he’s stayed engaged in social-impact work and creative pursuits ever since. This spring, he traveled to Washington, D.C. as an Arts Ed NJ alum to meet with education policymakers, one of many opportunities that grew out of his time with the Council. Below, he reflects on how the program shaped his path and what’s next.
What have you been up to since participating in the Youth Arts Ed Council?
Since participating in the Arts Ed Council, I’ve been studying at college and working on a lot of social-impact centered extracurriculars. I’ve been working on art on the side (when time permits!) and spending time with my friends and family.
How did the program impact you personally or professionally?
The program helped me professionally in making connections across the nonprofit industry. This past March, as an Arts Ed NJ alumni, I was able to travel down to Washington D.C. and meet with key individuals for education policymaking in NJ. I got the opportunity to speak to staffers and learned a lot from that experience! I truly loved that trip and it was just one instance among many rewarding experiences I’ve had at Arts Ed NJ since being a Council Leader. The program, overall, has truly opened up so many opportunities and connections for me.
What skills or techniques have stayed with you?
The program gave me several skills that I still use on a day-to-day basis. For one, facilitating and inspiring conversation in difficult topics is directly in line with my studies. Arts Ed taught me just how important that is through our many inter group dialogues. Additionally, I learned how to professionally communicate to key stakeholders within projects, specifically through the Annual Arts Ed Summit.
Did the experience help you step outside your comfort zone?
Certainly! Not only is Arts Ed NJ such a diverse group but the organization also works in advocacy for some of the most diverse populations of New Jersey. Growing up in a small suburb, Arts Ed NJ really brought me out of that bubble and exposed me to people who I may not have met before. These individuals taught me what I know today about the education systems in NJ.
What advice would you give future participants?
My biggest piece of advice for future participants is to put yourself out there and stay involved! Arts Ed NJ has opened up so many doors for me and without putting myself out there I wouldn’t have received the opportunities I have so far. Staying involved post-council is also incredibly important for building your network as a young professional!
What’s next for you?
Next up, I’ll be going back to college this fall as a Junior. I’m truly excited for what the school year is going to bring me and I’m hoping I can make time for my artistic hobbies in the future.
With your chosen art form, where do you see these skills playing a role in your future?
I work in a wide variety of art forms. More recently, I’ve loved recreational photography. This past summer I interned in Washington, D.C., and one of my favorite parts of the summer was capturing the beauty and warmth of the city. Moving forward, I hope to carry my love for capturing these moments to whatever city I arrive at next!
