Hatchett interviewed Nathan Brooks for this Q&A. He is a senior at the University of North Alabama, majoring in Communication Arts with a Concentration in Public Relation. 

Hatchett: Where are you from? 

Brooks: Hartselle, Alabama. 

Hatchett: What are some of your interests? 

Brooks: Christianity and ministry, creative media design, photography, post-impressionist and abstract art, minimalism, marvel, star wars, Greek life and leadership. 

Hatchett: What part did photography play in your life? 

Brooks: Photography began for me as a hobby when I was in middle school. My grandparents would let me use their camera whenever we needed to take family pictures or went on trips. I immediately was captivated by it and after noticing my interest, they got me my own camera. I taught myself, mainly via YouTube, and practiced. Now, after gaining practical photography skills, I have begun exploring other ways to express myself through it. Photography has taught me to appreciate small moments and to step outside of the day-to-day and see life for the beauty it is, despite all the struggles we can experience. 

Hatchett: Who are your biggest supporters? 

Brooks: My biggest supporters are my family. In my time in college, I have gone through many interest changes and have worked to lead in different ways. There has been a lot of exploration and my parents, sister and grandparents have always supported me. They admit that sometimes they do not understand my interests, but they are behind me all the way. 

Hatchett: What do you hope to accomplish in life? 

Brooks: In life, I hope to be a faithful servant of Christ. I believe that Christ saved me from an insufficient life by dying for my sins and making me right with God. I am no longer enslaved by my sin, but free from it and able to live according to God’s will. A will that is for my good and for His glory. So, I seek to live out every part of my life as a servant for Christ. 

Hatchett: What is some advice you implement in your daily life that you would like to impart? 

Brooks: Always strive to be more open-minded. Every person you meet is different and has a unique life story that has and is actively shaping who they are as individuals. There is value in listening to their stories and knowing them. We break down barriers and understand people more meaningfully when we strive to know them for who they are. Not for who others label them to be. 

Hatchett: Being a senior, what is the biggest unknown for you? 

Brooks: As a senior, the biggest unknown for me is what comes next. I have chosen to take a break before pursuing my masters degree and focus on honing skills and gaining experience in the field. So, I do not have a clear path forward. However, I’m not worried because I trust that God will get me where I need to go. I’ve just got to be faithful to work hard where I am and listen going forward.