Sara Laurent, art history, discovered her passion for the field unexpectedly through a general education class and never looked back. She found inspiration and mentorship in the Department of Art and Art History, where she developed strong research, writing, and curation skills. From archival projects to public campaigns promoting women artists, Sara embraced opportunities that combined creativity and activism, preparing her for a career rooted in education, cultural engagement, and community impact.
What led you to choose the University of Rhode Island and its art program?
I originally wanted to pursue studio art and biology when I started my undergraduate program. While taking my general education courses at URI, I stumbled upon an interesting art history class that fulfilled a requirement. One week into that class, I knew I had found the major best tailored to my strengths as a student and person. The Department of Art and Art History professors have consistently offered me support, inspiration, and numerous opportunities over the four years I have attended URI, and they are one of the primary reasons I chose to remain in the program.
What class had the biggest impact on you and why?
I took Professor Erin McCutcheon‘s “Art of the Americas” class in the fall of my sophomore year. This class and professor showed me that art history isn’t just naming and memorizing the titles of paintings and artists; it’s using both analytical and emotional thought processes to dissect what these works tell us about the society they were made in. “Art of the Americas” combined my love of American history with my passion for creativity and cultural practices while introducing new subjects that I had not taught throughout my education.
Did you participate in any internships, clubs, or student org? How did those experiences shape your path?
The summer going into my senior year, I started a project for a local organization that required research and archival work. I was well prepared for a job based on projects, writing, and research, like curation or registration because of my studies. Currently, I am working with Erin McCutcheon as her publications assistant. This has taught me the broad scope of careers that I could enter because of my major due to the strengths that my program and professors have taught me.
Can you share a project or experience you have done at URI that you’re especially proud of?
I was fortunate enough to take the “Women in Art” class last spring. The end product of this class was a campaign dedicated to supporting women artists, which spread awareness about how women in the arts are at a significant disadvantage compared to their male counterparts. Participating in this project showed me the power of combining art, activism, and education and how these things can only uplift our community.
What skills or knowledge from your major do you feel most confident bringing into your career?
My major has allowed me to improve my writing, organization, and analytical skills, which will help me pursue careers in research, education, curation, and other related fields. I have also gained confidence in public speaking and other professional skills that I will need in my future endeavors.
What will you miss most about URI?
URI has always felt like home to me, and after graduating, I will miss the community that it has given me. My major and my small class sizes lend themselves to fostering connections with classmates and teachers, and these connections will be ones that last.
If you could tell a future student one thing about studying at URI, what would it be?
If I could tell a future URI student anything, I would ask them to take advantage of all the opportunities they can. Keep saying yes to academic opportunities and ones outside of your major(s). This will only lead to more opportunities to meet people, network, and get your name out there!