Zoja Chmielarczyk is a junior at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, pursuing a BFA in fine art studio with minors in creative writing and teaching art. They usually work with soft sculpture, video, and installation, often simultaneously. While growing up, Zoja often sat in on their aunt's elementary school classes, later helping with the arrangement of art activities and demonstrations. Because of this familial influence, their aspiration to pursue education existed long before their interest in the visual arts and was fostered by countless teachers and instructors who dedicated themselves to sharing their skills and knowledge with others. Zoja values healthy, open communication in all parts of their life, and hopes to one day contribute to a community of supportive, understanding educators who give their students room for visual experimentation while gently guiding them toward their full potential.