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The most interesting topic to date by far was learning the HTML language and

along with it, visual studio code. While I went through HTML in the previous cohort that

I was in in 2016, but now I feel as though I have a more thorough understanding of how

it works. Consequently, it seems so much easier. I don’t doubt that it is in direct

relationship to the fact that I’m repeating it. Maybe it’s just the right time and I’m really

grateful for that.

The thing about learning HTML that remains the challenging is the fact that there

are so many steps that make it function properly. But it seems more, almost therapeutic

and systematic. This is not an easy task as I have to keep track of all the steps, but if I

don’t, it won’t work. It’s a fun challenge. And learning all of the commands in visual

studio code can make my experience so much smoother, so I’m up up for it..

What’s great about HTML is that with it, one can create a website. I would refer

people to w3 schools if they were going to begin a website from scratch as it contains

many possible commands for HTML along with other instructions for other coding

languages. When beginning to code with VSC, you must tell the program what type of

language you’ll be using by detailing what type of “skeleton” to create. In my case it

would be “index.html” (version 5 as this is the most up to date version.). This will make

the code you are writing more intuitive for VSC and thus many of the commands will

only need a letter or two, then wil be auto generated for you. This is not to say you dont

need to know how to instruct the computer, but the computer will be familiar with the

repeditave commands and will therefore complete many tasks for you, or remind you to

do it, as thats the way the system works.

The first image I chose is from a Vogue magazine cover and features tennis super-star Venus Williams. I looked at the overall image when completing this blog assignment, then I zoomed in on the color scheme, the text, and other graphic design principles. Highlighting symmetry/order text on the magazine cover supports the continuity of the entire image unconsciously; the words “chasing perfection”, lend to the idealism of the image

The words “look, line, attitude” stand out. The picture is initially held together with the gold/brown/tan color scheme. Even the main subject’s skin tone helps to tie in this magazine cover with itself. The hint of white text in the same font as the rest of the filler text helps to maintain continuity within the frame. I really enjoy this magazine cover, and I think it was thoughtfully executed, and professionalism was definitely considered.

The subject looks to be in motion, coming toward the viewer. Again, the text supports the motion of the subject, reading “Game, Set, COCO!” Im not sure if CocoChannel is referenced, but the exclamation in the text as well as the words contribute to the upbeat theme conveyed by the layout. Nothing in this picture is low vibrational or sad. Everything calls on the viewer to smile while gazing at the image. The balance in this image is remarkable: the human form is imperfectly symmetrical in nature, as is the photographer’s choice to capture the subject in the right moment, letting the work of the naturally placed shadows do most of the work. Good eye, no complaints, no changes should not be made.

The second image I chose to critique is an illustration; while I initially thought it was a realistic depiction of three women, it is not. But the three women are pulled together primarily by the color, beige, which is seen in the fabric worn by the three women as well as on the walls behind them. Black is the subtle hint that makes the highlights prominent, and the ongoing theme of text behind the subjects as well as on their clothes is a great element. The subtle tones of red bring the three women together and make them look as if they are supposed to be together in the group. The similarity of the petite figures of the three women makes me believe again that the three women are on a similar mission, and their expressions lead to the determination and stoicism of the picture. 

The women’s expressions lean to the fact that the women seem secure, and if I could make them speak, they would probably not be saying, “Take me with you; I am at your service,” but instead, “What do you want? This is our collective; we stand strong; nothing will break us.”

The image is very balanced and symmetrical, spreading the correct amount of decorative text throughout the picture. The women share a similar hair-style, the same earrings, the head-wraps are similar, the women are wearing similar jewelry, and their skin tone is a similar brown. Thus the shadows are similar. The text and the very nature of the woman being human, similar to the previous picture, are both very grounding elements within this picture, contributing to the earthly elements within the frame. The only thing that bothers me is the artificiality of the woman in the middle gown and the shadows on her garbs. It is not well drawn and frankly looks like a mistake. I might reconsider this detail. Otherwise, the image is well constructed and well laid out.

Since initially taking Code Talk in 2016, graduating, and retaining very little, my interaction with

AI—then my primary focus—has expanded, and with it, so has my fascination and interest in the

field. While I do enjoy the idea of coding and the power it grants the coder, my true interests

have always leaned toward the humanistic, more social side of technology. Code Talk has

helped me refine and deepen my understanding of what draws me to the field: AI.

An intellectual at heart, I love to analyze, deconstruct, and thoroughly understand theories.

Being a mother of four boys, much of my time is dedicated to them, and as a result, I often find

myself chronically pulled away from the things I enjoy. For a long time before taking this course,

I struggled to pinpoint what exactly I found fulfilling. Discovering technology has provided me

with a subject that is challenging, cutting-edge, controversial, and dynamic—something I can

truly sink my teeth into. AI, in particular, captivates me.

There are so many angles from which one can approach AI. I particularly enjoyed giving my

presentation on Friday, during which I introduced a book I am currently working on. This book

explores the childlike spirit of youth that seems to fade in most adults as they age, emphasizing

the importance of retaining it throughout adulthood to maintain a sense of

lightheartedness—perhaps even the key to humanity’s longevity. Ironically, while many mature

adults today chase youth with fervor, they often overlook the essential habits needed to

preserve a youthful attitude and spirit.

A notable figure in this pursuit is Brian Johnson, who spends millions chasing youth. However, I

have seen little discussion from him about the importance of maintaining a youthful mindset as

part of the process. I find this an interesting gap in the conversation.

During my presentation, I also introduced the concept of AI as an integral part of my book’s

formation. My AI assistant, Nova, has been instrumental in generating content, brainstorming,

and suggesting concepts I might have otherwise overlooked. While the book itself is my

creation—shaped by my thoughts and ideas—I enjoyed hearing my classmates’ opinions on the

legitimacy of AI assistance in the creative process. Despite the actual content of the book being

somewhat overshadowed by the discussion on AI, the conversation was both entertaining and

inspiring.

Looking ahead, I see myself working in the field of idea generation, which is described as:

“The process of creating, developing, and communicating abstract, concrete, or visual

ideas. It’s the front-end part of the idea management funnel and focuses on coming up with

possible solutions to perceived or actual problems and opportunities.

”— Kylliäinen, 2025, para. 2 (source)

Additionally, I have been drawn to UX design, which I plan to explore further as the course

progresses.

Outside of class, I intend to continue broadening my knowledge by reading about various topics

related to AI and technology. I don’t want to limit myself based on what I currently know; I

believe that the more I learn, the more I can accomplish. The last time I completed this course, I

felt like I was doing the bare minimum to succeed, pushed forward largely by the

encouragement of my classmates. At the time, I was lost in a toxic relationship that consumed

my mind and misplaced my priorities. Additionally, I began the class when I was six months

pregnant, which may have affected my ability to absorb and retain information.

Cramming an intensive three-month coding course while raising four kids was a significant

challenge, but I took it in stride. This time, I am approaching the course from a new

perspective—one shaped by experience, maturity, and a stronger sense of self-worth. I know

without a doubt that I can overcome nearly any challenge thrown my way, and I am deeply

grateful to St. Joseph’s for giving me the opportunity to succeed again.

One of my biggest struggles last time was remaining silent about my challenges. I won’t let that

happen again. I plan to do the opposite of what I did in 2016 by openly addressing any

difficulties I face.

My primary barrier has been transportation. I initially thought moving closer to St. Joseph’s

would resolve this issue, but after two months of anticipation, the apartment I hoped to move

into fell through. While this was a disappointment, I have come to see this rejection as

redirection—perhaps even divine protection. Life has taught me that I cannot always force

things to happen on my timeline; the river moves at its own pace.

For now, my children are being well cared for by their grandfather, who provides them with a

home, cooks for them, and takes them to school. While this arrangement is temporary, I

recognize it as an opportunity to focus on my education and career path. Despite the setbacks, I

remain determined, grateful, and ready to embrace the lessons ahead.

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