CFA: Tell us more about FenMake. How do you envision BU students utilizing the space?

Joy: I help manage FenMake. I actually became involved with the project since the beginning of the 2025-2026 academic year, helping to imagine the space and making it inviting and accessible. I was there to unpack the inventory and decide how to organize the tools and supplies. We want FenMake makerspace to be convenient for students to use. I also designed the branding and made advertising and informational flyers, etc. 

Once the makerspace officially opened, I assisted with workshops for students and also led one in cartooning, which is my background. The makerspace offers more students more opportunities to make art after they enter college. It could be exciting for students who may have enjoyed doing arts and crafts in high school or even during their free time. Now they have a place to do that. Also, art is always a strong medium for relaxing; there is a therapeutic side to it.

CFA: How did you learn about this project? How did you get involved with FenMake?

Joy: My professor, Felice Amato, mentioned this opportunity to me before the school year started. She knew I wanted to have a range of art education experiences outside of the public schools. 

I feel that in my last year of college, I want and need to try different things, especially after I decided not to pursue K-12 licensure. It’s a brand new thing for me, and I was seeking experience with things related to what I am exploring for my career, or that may even affect my future career path.

I also want to thank Karen Chaney, Assistant Director of Residence Life for Student Development, and Danielle Sopko, Senior Director of Student Affairs Operations & Strategy, who were willing to support the makerspace and include me in the process of building it. It’s something that could offer me more choices after I graduate. So after I saw the vision for the space, I really wanted to participate in this.

CFA: What are some notable highlights for you about FenMake?

Joy: So far, I have learned a lot, like how to manage this kind of open learning environment. I have discovered what a low-tech makerspace needs, what it could have, and what kind of tools students may or may not use. Also, I’m learning how to use Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to create promotional flyers. How exciting it is to have the motivation to learn new techniques! I have also had the opportunity to teach people to weave and engage in other activities, and in return, I’ve learned through the process of teaching them.

CFA: How did your courses at CFA connect with this experience?

Joy: I have taken a range of art education classes where we explored different media and techniques, and also pedagogical theories like studio thinking and the design cycle. The materials that we have purchased and gathered so far are inspired by my coursework since I’ve learned that offering a variety of tools and materials gives children and also adults more space for creativity. I feel that, as the makerspace evolves and there are more workshops, I will be able to make more connections.

CFA: In what way do you think this opportunity has helped you prepare for your future after BU? And, what did you learn about yourself?

Joy: This opportunity has helped me to figure out what I want to do in the future, and it has given me a new direction. Because it took many people collaborating to make FenMake happen, I have a sense of the kinds of networks I want to build in the future.

What did I learn about myself? Well, I learned I could be really pushy about keeping everything organized! I have been able to bring my love of organizing to the space to make it more usable for students and help keep track of the inventory. I’m naturally shy and not always comfortable communicating with strangers, but this work has provided a space for me to be myself.

CFA: Any advice for current CFA students interested in pursuing similar projects, experiences?

Joy: Do not be afraid of trying new things because you may end up loving them.

CFA: Joy, what’s next for you?!

Joy: I am finishing the work for my degree, including a capstone project. I’m currently focused on finishing my writing and illustrating my own picture book, as well as developing my own illustration-based products. I’ve always been interested in selling some products of my personal work, and I’m also experimenting with new materials and techniques for creating puppets with removable masks. In addition, I started to volunteer at a retirement home, where I prepare and lead art activities for seniors, which has been a very meaningful experience for me.