Courtesy of Micheal Roustemis

Ever since junior Micheal Roustemis picked up his first camera in fifth grade, he knew it was meant to be. Now Roustemis is attending classes at College for Creative Studies to expand his artistic skills.
Roustemis has made it his goal to always be one step ahead of everyone else, both as a student and an artist, and continues to use this to motivate and encourage others who may want to do the same as he does.
“I always like to have the advantage of getting ahead just that much earlier,” Roustemis said. “I talked to my counselor, and they found that they could put me inside CCS for photography classes because I don’t like to stop, I want to keep going.”
Having that extra edge is essential for Roustemis. He has a typical schedule at North but once the bell rings, he can be found downtown attending college classes at the CCS. This helps him gain a new perspective on his craft by teaching him to be an all-around artist before he specializes in a specific field.
“I’m taking color theory and light studies, but it’s really been allowing me to explore other things.” Roustemis said. “Everything I’ve learned has had so much real life application. And it’s really helped me, not just behind the camera, but also how I’ve grown as a person.”
Although his journey after CCS may be tough, his goals are set high. Roustemis plans to be a photographer for National Geographic one day and travel the world. Ultimately, Roustemis preaches patience through what he has learned at CCS and encourages others that are aspiring artists like he is, to be patient and to enjoy what you are doing even if it seems difficult.
“The thing is, when there’s always someone better than you, don’t be discouraged, ” Roustemis said. “It should be a practice. It shouldn’t be a task. If you’re not having fun doing it, then there’s something wrong.”