Hello! I'm Arturo Zavala! I’m driven by my passions for art, education, and music, all of which deeply resonate with my Mexican American heritage. I grew up in Santa Ana, California then moved to North Ogden, Utah. So, I am no stranger to culture shock!

In my current role as the Associate Director of Academic Advising for the College of Design, I guide aspiring artists and designers on their academic journey. I have a master’s degree in arts administration, that gives me a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help students explore their creative potential and navigate the intricacies of the art and design world.

Beyond academia, I'm a devoted mariachi musician, pouring my heart and soul out into my trumpet in over 200 performances a year! Another way I help preserve and pass on my cultural tradition is by volunteering once a week at the local middle school’s after school mariachi club.

Despite my busy schedule, nothing brings me more joy than spending time with my two daughters. Whether we're exploring the outdoors, creating music together, or simply enjoying each other's company, family always remains at the heart of my life.

Through my diverse pursuits and unwavering commitment to my passions, I strive to exemplify the power of art, education, and cultural heritage to unite communities and inspire positive change.

P.S. I’m also a huge Simpsons fan. If you like to randomly quote obscure lines from the show, I think we’ll get a long just fine!

Email: arturo@uoregon.edu

Hey everyone, my name is Jorge. I am an Environmental Design student and possibly an Entrepreneurship minor, I will be a FIG Assistant for the Exploring Art & Design FIG. This will be my second year being a FIG Assistant and I am stoked to be a part of it, I was in a FIG my freshman year and I'm looking forward to being your FA since I enjoyed it so much! When I'm not in school I enjoy playing the piano, going on runs, cooking, hanging out with my friends and more. I love pastries and coffee so some of my favorite places to go are Espresso Roma, Dark Pine Coffee, Vero Espresso. Eugene is also home to one of the biggest running cities in the United States so running trails and parks are all over the area, my favorite places to go is Pre's Trail, Hendricks Park, Skinner Butte Park, and the Amazon trail. I am excited to meet everybody participating in the Art/College of Design FIG this upcoming fall during your first term. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to me and I'll respond to you as soon as I can. Wishing everybody a great summer and hope to meet you all soon!

Want to connect with your FA? Email figs@uoregon.edu to get connected!

FIG Assistant: Jacob

Hello! My name is Jacob, but feel free to call me Jake. I use He/Him/His pronouns, and I am beyond excited to be one of your FIG assistants. I was born and raised in Bermuda, and I am entering my junior year here at the University. I am currently in the Pre-Landscape Architecture track in the College of Design. Some of my interests and hobbies include mountain biking and cycling in general. I love the outdoors, whether it's hiking or swimming, and Oregon has allowed me to experience so many different terrain features. I am looking forward to meeting you all in the fall and getting to know you better. Feel free to reach out with any questions about the USP program, the college transition, or anything else that might be on your mind.