Painting My Path: How a 'Finger Painting Degree' from Pratt Institute Shaped My Entrepreneurial Journey
Elizabeth Murphy
CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER | Startups & SMB's l Organizational Development l Startup Junkie l Passion for People,Dedication to Progress l EA,Chief of Staff, Wendy Rhoades l 30+Startups l Executive Leadership | Shark Tank, YC
In the vast tapestry of life, each of us is a unique artist, painting our destinies with the brushes of our choices, experiences, and the people we meet along the way. My canvas began in the most unexpected of places: a small-minded Catholic school where the head once told my mother that, at best, I would end up in community college. This underestimation was the spark that ignited a fire within me, a relentless drive that has propelled me forward ever since.
Fast forward to my time at Pratt Institute, where I pursued what some affectionately (or dismissively) call a 'finger painting degree.' This journey wasn't just about learning to blend colors on canvas but about blending the various aspects of my life to create a masterpiece uniquely my own. Michael J. Fox once said, "Some days are more difficult than others. But the disease is this thing that’s attached to my life — it isn’t the driver." For me, dyslexia was that 'thing'—ever-present but never in control of me.
The path was far from easy. Echoing the sentiments of Dave Chappelle as he stepped into the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, there were moments at Pratt when I doubted my belonging. Yet, just as Chappelle had a guiding light in his corner, I had Mrs. Cathie Cosgrove. She stayed late, helped me prepare my college applications, and fine-tune my work. It was this blend of disbelief and belief, skepticism and support, that set me on my path to New York City—a place I've called home for the last 20 years.
This journey wasn't solely about academic or artistic achievement; it was about the profound impact teachers can have, the importance of resilience, and the love that spreads within the walls of an art school. My first application to Pratt was rejected, but I refused to accept 'no' as an answer. With Mrs. Cosgrove's help, I went back to the drawing board—literally—and on my second attempt, I was accepted. This level of resilience is vital in the startup world, where 'no's and failures are as common as coffee in a coworking space.
The recent episode dedicated to Dave Chappelle's acceptance of having the Duke Ellington school renamed in his honor struck a chord with me. He chose instead to name it The Theater for Artistic Freedom and Expression. This resonated deeply, as Pratt itself evolved from an engineering school in the 1880s into a fine arts institution. Though I never saw myself as an engineer, a recent visit to the campus revealed a striking realization: I had been engineering teams, companies, and my own life for the past two decades. My strategic goals and the way I built upon them mirrored the engineering process, guided by a desire to create and innovate on my terms.
Dave Chappelle wisely noted, "Art is a powerful commodity. An artist, if you’re good at it, should never behave as a commodity." This philosophy has been a cornerstone of my entrepreneurial journey. The startup landscape, much like the world of art, is not about conforming to expectations but about breaking them, innovating, and making a mark on the world in your unique way.Taking less money like Dave to be able to do what I wanted.Creating and fostering startups.
Reflecting on my journey, I see every challenge, every doubter, and every triumph not just as milestones but as tools. Each experience added to my toolbox, helping me build and grow. My time at Pratt, my 'finger painting degree,' was more than just an education in art; it was an education in life, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of passion.
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In the end, doing what you love isn't easy. It's a path fraught with obstacles, doubts, and challenges. Yet, when I look back, I realize that these weren't just hurdles; they were stepping stones, each one a vital part of the journey that has led me to where I am today. This is the essence of my story, a narrative of resilience, creativity, and the unwavering belief that with passion, perseverance, and the right people by your side, anything is possible.
Your journey, like mine, is unique. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or dreamer, remember: the canvas of your life is yours to paint. Let not the skeptics hold the brush. Instead, paint boldly, with colors of resilience, passion, and purpose. I implore you to use your Artistic Freedom and Expression to help and support yourself and others. I want that for every student- Dave Chappelle
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