2008 POINT SCHOLARS

Djamika Smith

Maryland Institute College of Art

Graphic Design

Djamika was born in Bali, Indonesia and lived there for seven years until she moved with her family to Ashland, Oregon. Being bisexual, bi-racial and bi-cultural, Djamika has learned that the lines created between different cultures and lifestyles are inconsequential. She co-founded and co-led the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) at Ashland High School and helped coordinate the school’s Day of Silence, Gay-Pride Week and presentations on the importance of tolerance. Off-campus, Djamika was an active member in her community volunteering her time at Food for People and the Ashland Library, as well as working as a counselor at both the Lost Coast Camp and Fresh Start (a retreat to help incoming high school freshman build self-esteem and new friendships).

Djamika is now majoring in graphic design at the Maryland Institute College of Art. She brings with her a love and appreciation for the arts that she attributes to her experience growing up with a painter as a father in a highly artistic culture. As a graphic designer, she hopes to work with humanitarian organizations that strive to bring an end to discrimination, intolerance, and homophobia.

“I believe that people are essentially the same, no matter what background they come from, where they live, or who they love- instead of concentrating on our differences, I strive to bring out our similarities.”