College is a unique time in our lives during which we experience many "firsts." We may be living on our own for the first time, feeding ourselves for the first time, paying bills for the first time - wholly accountable to no one but ourselves. For some, this period may also include our first serious loss. As daunting as the college experience may be, it's made even more so when we're faced with grieving the death of a loved one. We often don't yet have the tools to emotionally process that loss. Our friends may not understand. And we're isolated from the support group we've spent our lives leaning on - our family back home. All this is made even more difficult by challenging college courses.
I entered into this project from a place of personal experience, I understood what I was asking of those who agreed to participate, and I was aware that my role was that of a listener and of a supporter. What I didn't know, was how many people this project would touch.
Each person shared a cherished photo of their loved one, worked with me on a portrait session, and allowed me to photograph one item that they hold dear because it reminds them of who they lost. During the interview portion of the project they described their loved one, told me many stories, and explained why they had chosen their item.