Erica Lampkin, BA in Interdisciplinary arts & performance

May 10, 2009

Winds of change: Katrina survivor finds new life at ASU For graduating senior Erica Lampkin, who will graduate magna cum laude with a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Arts and Performance (IAP) from the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, a disastrous storm in August 2005 marked a new beginning.<separator></separator>After graduating from high school in New Orleans in May of that year, Lampkin, who has earned a 3.69 GPA while at ASU’s West campus, enrolled at the University of New Orleans, eyeing a future in communication. She attended classes for one week before Hurricane Katrina, which slammed her hometown in the early hours of August 29, changed everything.<separator></separator>“I would definitely still be living in New Orleans,” says Lampkin, who serves as one of New College’s valued peer mentors, helping freshmen get comfortable and connected with campus resources. “I would have never left, but I think leaving has changed my life for the better.”<separator></separator>The change began very quickly.<separator></separator>“When I applied to ASU, I was introduced to advisors at New College who helped me register for classes and find what I need to get started in class. They assisted me in my adjustment to a new environment and it felt like family. Their hospitality helped me stay and complete my degree.”<separator></separator>IAP faculty member Charles St. Clair says Lampkin is a notch above. “Her innovative and careful preparation, responsible attitude, and her undeniable desire and dedication give her a superior rating when compared to her peers.”<separator></separator>Lampkin’s degree work has focused on film and video. She hopes to pursue a master’s degree in communication or business.