Alicia Castro Carbajal

Hello, I am Alicia. Some may know me as Cia. I am a friend of the poppies and a lover of visual creativity.

After battling a severe skin condition my first year of college, I considered dropping out of school. However, being a first generation student has been my lifelong reminder that I can do anything even in the toughest of conditions.

Left with permanent scarring on both sides of my face, my refuge was my personal faith and my education. I have spent my entire life up until now in complete self doubt about my worth. Suddenly, I was forced to face myself in the mirror (both literally and figurally speaking). I had to reevaluate what I stand for.

I could spend this life tied down to my physical and internal insecurities. OR: I could make a difference for myself and my family by giving myself the chance to become educated.

While obtaining a degree in Art History at College of Marin, I took a few fine arts courses that solidified my love for visual creativity. I transferred to San Jose State University and obtained a Design Studies degree with a concentration in Graphic Design. I am the first from my family to graduate college. I am excited to use my creativity for others, since it took much effort to get to this point in the first place.

Now: I am a visual creative with a range of skills, mostly because I can't stop trying new things. I would be bored if I stopped.

One of my visual muses is the California Poppy. When I started in person courses at College of Marin, I found myself surrounded by beautiful cups of orange. In the worst of my depressive stages, poppies inspired me to keep going; they sprout out of cracks on the ground, they can go a long while in hot conditions, they are boldy bright among more neutral toned plants. I want to be strong, bold, and brave to always be myself both personally and visually.

Let's Make

Your Vision a Reality

Please review my work by clicking on the poppy petal on the far left corner.

For any questions, feel free to contact me using the form below.

Thank you!