By Keelen Landrum
Photo by Elina Doddamani
Managing time to juggle eight classes in school is something every student should learn how to do to succeed. Some students add work to this mix. What happens when you throw hobbies into the mix, too?
A hobby is “an activity done regularly during leisure time for pleasure,” according to Oxford Languages dictionary. Having a hobby can seem like too much stress at times, but it’s a very good way to enhance mental productivity. Common hobbies for students could be dancing, writing, painting, sports, photography, etc., and the Willow School is known for helping students pursue these.
Of course, these art forms could also prove to become more career than hobby if a student is talented and so inclined. Willow junior Elina Doddamani is a perfect example of someone whose hobby has become more.
“I think I would have picked photography up on my own, but school helped guide me,” said Doddamani. Elina had been previously introduced to the concept of photography, but during her sophomore year, she was able to hone her skills and develop a passion for creating art by taking pictures in Mr. Soileau’s media arts class.
Due to the exposure and training she received both inside and outside of class, Doddamani kickstarted a profitable business called E’s photography that donates to charity and also does non-profit work. According to a survey by NBC, around 60% of students have plans to start their own business in the future, but similar to Doddamani, some students who are extremely passionate about their hobby may be more influenced to start a business while in school.
Though the entrepreneur aspect of a hobby can be nice, it’s common to have a hobby simply for enjoyment purposes. Another survey done by NBC showed that 80% of students have a hobby that they partake in while outside of school. Having a hobby that you enjoy can distract you from the stress of the world, and involving people that are meaningful in your life can strengthen and build relationships.
“I love making things for my family and friends more than for myself because it’s so great to see people wearing things I made, and I do it free of charge because it puts a smile on their faces,” said Willow sophomore Abby Gotzkowsky. She began crocheting only a few months ago, and already she is able to creatively express herself in a new way. If you see her in the hallways at school, there’s a good chance you might spot her wearing something she designed herself.
Being influenced by a hobby can have a small, yet meaningful impact on your student life, or it could have a large impact, helping guide your career path choices. Doddamani can attest to the positive benefits because she earned the privilege of having her photo on the cover of a popular magazine in New Orleans’ Geaux Girl Magazine.
Learning to discover yourself through an engaging activity promotes character development and brain stimulation. So whether you have entrepreneurship in mind, or you pursue a hobby just to manufacture fun, anyone can reap the benefits of exploring an art form.
