Arts scholarship inspires Nik's novel approach
Nik Ynez is the 2023 recipient of the Patricia Jensen Arts Scholarship, established from the estate of Patricia Jensen (nee Smith) to honour her love of literature and the arts. Thanks to ongoing support from a generous donor, the scholarship continues to encourage students to achieve their dreams through education.
Why did you choose this area of study?
I have always wanted to study English since falling in love with books and stories as a child. Studying a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) full-time has not been an easy path but I’m almost finished honours, aiming for high distinctions. My ultimate academic goal is to complete a PhD and eventually teach at the University.
What challenges have you faced?
I am legally blind with a chronic medical condition that makes it difficult for me to work and study. I get tired very easily and my low vision makes it a much harder and lengthier process to absorb information and to study. Before applying for the scholarship, I was struggling financially to support myself and my two teenage girls who also have additional needs.
How did receiving the Patricia Jensen Arts Scholarship help?
The scholarship has been life-changing for me and my family. It alleviated so much stress! Stress around finances, stress around whether I am doing the right thing putting my kids through this. I was able to pay bills and buy necessities for my family without falling into debt. I was also able to purchase software to help me with my studies, update my incredibly old computer equipment and organise my study area to be more efficient.
Can you tell us about your passion for graphic novels?
I love the way graphic novels focus on visual storytelling and their huge capacity to engage people who may struggle with reading comprehension, for example, somebody with dyslexia or low vision. But, like most media, I don’t often see myself in these stories. My goal is to produce graphic novels where disability and LGBTIQA+ issues are represented, with various accessibility options so people with low vision or no vision can interact with the stories. I see it as a form of activism and a way I can help dispel people’s assumptions about disability.
Knowing that someone else believes in me has been amazing for my self-esteem and confidence. It proves that I am highly capable and will succeed. Receiving this scholarship has been the difference between completing honours and excelling at honours. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to excel.”
Nik Ynez
2023 Patricia Jensen Arts Scholarship Recipient
Bachelor of Arts, 2021
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