“I chose FSU over all other universities because I wanted a holistic perspective of university life with many strengths outside of the arts.”
Fast Facts
- Freshman Dorm: Reynolds Hall
- Favorite Study Spot: Student Union
- Outdoorsy: Surfs, wakeboards and rides a dirt bike
- Sunshine State Advocate: Floridian environmental rights lover
- Favorite FSU Event: Carnivals on Landis Green
Raven Watkins, a dual anthropology and studio art major at Florida State University, is studying the intersection of art, academics and social impact.
Watkins immersed herself in Spanish culture at the FSU campus in Valencia, Spain, for the summer of 2024 under the Brooks Rogers scholarship. She attended the biological anthropology field school in Chelva, a region out of Valencia, where she learned the techniques of bioarchaeology by studying and cataloging a victim of the Spanish Civil War.
After her time abroad, Watkins researched under the Tyler Fellowship within the IDEA Grant program, and she is now pursuing the Global Citizenship Certification.
Inspired by her studies, Watkins’ current research focuses on telling stories of the Spanish Civil War through stop-motion animation. She promotes the importance of artists in research because they have the capability to build community and represent emotion.
Through these efforts, Watkins uniquely applies her artistic abilities in telling stories that connect people and uplift vulnerable communities.
Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?
I chose FSU over all other universities because I wanted a holistic perspective of university life with many strengths outside of the arts. For me, at the top of my list of importance was to have a broad and strong list of disciplines that create a well-rounded student body and staff. I was unsure of the path I wanted to take out of high school, so a big university with a multitude of options was ideal for me to be able to explore every avenue, and I continue to reap those benefits.
What academic achievements have you accomplished at FSU?
My most significant academic accomplishments thus far while at FSU include my summer with FSU International Programs studying abroad in Valencia, participating at the biological anthropology field school in Chelva, Spain.
I also stayed in The Conventual Franciscans, where St. Francis de Assisi famously founded the order of the Franciscans in the 14th century. I learned about the history of the region of Valencia, dating all the way back to its creation. This time is what inspired me on my first visit to Valencia to continue my research here, as Spain is often disregarded in the global discussion about the history of fascism.
The Spanish song “Tatuaje,” by Concha Piquer, inspired my deep dive in this area. It highlights the cultural aspect of mourning loss while staying strong that the Spaniards exhibited during this time of history. In response to this work, I will continue my artistic research as a stop-motion animation. I’m proud to have received an IDEA Grant award to fund this work, and I will be defending the animation through Honors in the Major.
How do you serve the FSU community?
My most significant contribution beyond the classroom at FSU has been my time working for Assistant Professor Katie Kehoe in the College of Fine Arts as an art researcher in 2024 for the engaged art initiative in Steinhatchee, Florida. I planted fruit trees and bushes for a community dedication event that honors members of the community who exemplified resilience in the wake of Hurricane Helene. It was an experience I am honored to have been a part of as someone who was greatly impacted by Hurricane Michael in my hometown of Panama City, Florida.