June 2024
Embracing Authenticity: Derrek Ingalls' Journey
Derrek Ingalls wears many hats: photographer, aspiring coach, and customer service representative. In May, he added a graduation cap from the University of Arizona to the mix, having traveled from Tampa, Florida, to celebrate as an Arizona Online student.
A longstanding tradition at the University of Arizona is decorating graduation caps. Derrek adorned his with an image of Taylor Swift and the message “I Became The Man,” inspired by Swift's song "The Man," which resonated with his experiences of gender transition.
“During my time at Arizona, I navigated this significant personal transition, and I found the university environment to be exceptionally supportive, allowing me to embrace and express my authentic self,” Derrek said.
The ribbon imagery on his cap symbolizes the challenges faced by transgender and LGBTQIA+ children today, emphasizing the need for greater support and advocacy.
Reflecting on Pride month, Derrek shared that it represents both a celebration of diversity and a reflection of societal progress. “From its origins as a riot, Pride has evolved into a vital occasion where I can openly celebrate my uniqueness alongside others in the community,” he said, stressing the importance of year-round support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Pursuing Passions
As an Interdisciplinary Studies student focusing on Art, Media, and Entertainment, Derrek balanced his academic interests with careers in photography and customer service. “The flexibility of online education suited my schedule as a full-time worker,” he noted.
His interdisciplinary program allowed him to specialize in sports, aligning with his background as a former athlete and his ambition to coach high school diving. A course in documentary photography further fueled his passion for visual storytelling.
Derrek appreciated the recorded lectures in the online program, which allowed him to engage deeply with his courses at his own pace. “This flexibility enhanced my learning experience and reinforced my commitment to leveraging digital platforms for continuous professional and academic growth,” he said.
Looking Forward
With graduation behind him, Derrek plans to take a sabbatical to prepare for future career goals, including applying for the Global Media MA degree at Arizona Online. His ultimate ambition is to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving healthcare access for LGBTQIA+ adults, aiming to bridge gaps in knowledge and resources.
Derrek credits his professors with helping him acquire the skills and wisdom to confidently pursue his aspirations. “Their guidance, mentorship, and dedication to education have been invaluable throughout my academic journey. I am deeply thankful for their commitment to excellence and their belief in my potential,” he said.
