Challenges Overcome: Sterling Godwin, BA IS&A ‘26

I have a strong interest in both digital art and computing, so the Bachelor’s in Information Science and Arts was a perfect mix for what I was looking for.

 
Sterling Godwin, a Phoenix native majoring in Information Science and Arts with a minor in Business Administration, overcame cancer before beginning his journey at the University of Arizona and College of Information Science. The challenge may have delayed his education, but it never dimmed his passion for digital art and computing.
  

What brought you to the University of Arizona to study information science and arts?

The Information Science and Arts program is different from many other programs offered here at the University of Arizona. I have a strong interest in both digital art and computing, so it was a perfect mix for what I was looking for.

Which classes are most interesting to you in your program?

I am most interested in the web classes offered, as well as eSociety courses like Digital Storytelling. What draws me to them is that they fill my interest in both website development and learning new ways to tell stories in the digital world that are more interactive through technology.
 

What do you like best about the Bachelor’s in Information Science and Arts?

One of my favorite things about the Information Science and Arts degree is the faculty, who make the classes more interesting and heavily involve the students during lecture hours.

What has been your biggest challenge at the University of Arizona, and how have you overcome that challenge?

My biggest challenge has been adapting to college life and workload. I took an extended break before starting college, so I was no longer used to academic life. I was able to overcome this challenge, though, by working with my instructors and taking advantage of their office hours. Being back in the classroom took some getting used to, but after the first semester of long study and meeting with instructors, I was able to succeed in my academic life.
 

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You’ve had to overcome serious health challenges prior to attending the U of A. Would you share a bit about that?

I have gone through cancer treatment in the past. In 2018 I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which put my life on pause before starting college. I was able to overcome the sickness after a couple years and come back stronger. The experience led me to the decision to go to college and being here today.

Tell us about your work experience, as well as your career interests.

I have professional experience in food photography. It was a fun to be able to go and shoot restaurants and food around the Phoenix area. Building from this experience, I aspire to work in digital media or website creation in the future.
 

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What does the InfoSci experience mean for you?

The InfoSci experience to me means enjoying the ride of going through college in my chosen degree program here at the College of Information Science.

What student organizations are you involved with? Tell us about that experience.

I am part of Photography Club here at the U of A. My experience has been great, as I have met many new friends in the club. Along with friends, there are many knowledgeable members who have helped me be a better photographer and get into film photography as well.
 

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What do you enjoy doing outside of school?

My biggest hobbies are cooking and photography. Many times they are combined, but I do not go a week without making at least one big dinner.

What advice do you have for prospective InfoSci students?

Have passion for your class projects and pick the degree that you enjoy most.
  

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