Tree with light filtering through
Photo Essays, SCAD
Photo Essays, SCAD

A Week in the Life: Home away from home

Written by Ally Abruscato, Photos by Ally Abruscato

As I documented a week in my life at SCAD, I discovered how normal everything has become. As a freshman, I’ve only been in Savannah for six weeks, but it honestly feels like a lifetime. While photographing my life this week, I found it difficult to find beauty in my everyday life. I realized that I’ve adapted much easier and more quickly than I expected. This has caused me to take for granted the artistry and charm that surrounds me. But by taking these images, I was able to truly appreciate my home away from home. 

At first, my schedule seemed a little overwhelming. As a night owl, I was not looking forward to the daily 8 a.m. classes. Now, the early wake-ups and busy bus rides feel routine and oddly therapeutic. Being able to have some quiet time before my day starts has been surprisingly valuable. Watching the colors change in the sky as I ride to class has been a splendid way to wake up. 

Live oak trees with text over that reads "a week in my life at SCAD"
Sunrise with palm trees and text that reads "8am classes"
people standing on bus with text that reads "busy buses"
Picture of Wallin Hall with text that reads "Class!"
Photo of light fixture with text that reads "Create! Learn! Inspire!"
Picture of Wallin Hall with text that reads "more class"
Street sign on MLK and Turner with text that reads "go for a run"
Photo of sticker on lamp post with text that reads "art is everywhere"
Photo of drawing supplies with text that reads "art is everywhere"
Tree with light filtering through with text that reads "home away from home"

I also remember being afraid of boredom in the extremely long classes. Oftentimes, nothing is scarier than the unknown. Thankfully, the two and half hour long classes scare me much less than they used to. I know it’s cheesy, but the time seems to fly by. Stressfully sketching or listening to a lecture is not as bad as I expected. I truly enjoy experimenting with the new skills I’m learning. I’ve found that I can walk away feeling like I’ve learned something. 

Luckily, I’ve been able to take time for myself and go on runs around the city. Running is a tremendous way to get some alone time and learn how to navigate Savannah. Exercise has allowed me to let out some of my energy and spark some creativity. I don’t know how I would get through a busy day without it. 

At times, the homework seems never-ending. Still, the projects and artwork have been a lot more entertaining than the notes and essays I was used to in high school. It can be a little overwhelming but has ultimately been fulfilling. 

Honestly, the new environment has been a perfect hub for inspiration. Coming from a small town, I felt like I had run out of things to photograph. Being in Savannah, and especially at SCAD, I’ve been surrounded by inspiration. Being around so many creative minds allows my own creativity to flow. 

In the end, this week of documentation forced me to be thankful for the life I have here at SCAD. By stopping to take a moment and appreciate where I am, I’ve reminded myself why I’m here. The endless inspiration and opportunities are like no other.

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