Lamya Hatton

 

Lamya Hatton

Living with ADHD has been a daily challenge for me, especially when I was younger. Managing focus and staying on task felt like an uphill battle, whether I was hyperfixating on something irrelevant or struggling to find motivation for important tasks. I tried medication, but it left me feeling depressed and caused a loss of appetite, so I had to stop. Therapy became a turning point for me, helping me discover that art is my ultimate outlet. Through creativity, I found a way to express myself positively and channel my energy into something meaningful. However, ADHD still affects my productivity in art, as I often struggle to maintain consistency or follow through on projects. Despite this, art remains a vital part of who I am, and I’m constantly working to find ways to stay motivated and productive. Joining Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) at Bishop State has been a transformative experience for me. Though I’m new to the organization, the opportunities and support they’ve provided have inspired me to think more deeply about my role in the community. From participating in book signings to discovering the Art Club through PTK, I’ve learned so much about how I can contribute to those around me. This has motivated me to volunteer more often, and one idea I’m particularly passionate about is working with kids at a recreational center. I want to teach them how to express themselves positively through art—whether it’s drawing, writing, or even playing with Legos. PTK has shown me that I can make a difference, and I’m excited to explore these opportunities further. Initially, I was hesitant about attending Bishop State. I had my heart set on going to an art school and felt that Bishop and Mobile had nothing to offer me. I wanted to be on my own and feared getting stuck in Mobile like my parents did. I had already been accepted to my dream four-year college and even received a scholarship, so Bishop felt like a setback. However, during a high school Honors Day event, Bishop offered full-ride scholarships to the first five students who emailed a specific advisor. My parents encouraged me to apply, and I ended up receiving the scholarship. While I was proud of the achievement, I also felt disappointed, as it seemed my dreams were being put on hold. I didn’t want to give up the scholarship, but I wasn’t sure how it would affect my future plans. Looking back, attending Bishop State has been a blessing. I’ve been able to complete my basic classes, save money, and continue preparing for my dream art school. The extra time has allowed me to focus on applying for more scholarships and refining my goals, proving that sometimes the unexpected path can lead to great opportunities.