Meet Roya Oshrieh

We were lucky to catch up with Roya Oshrieh recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Roya, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

I was once a graphic designer, permanently laid off from a role I loved working in screen printing. This was near the end of 2008 and I had no clue what my next step should be, so I began interviewing for similar jobs and asking potential employers for feedback as to why I was not moving forward in the hiring process. After receiving feedback, I decided it was time for a dramatic transition — I was uncertain where I would end up, and frankly ready to embark on a new journey! At the time, I did not believe I possessed any other truly ‘marketable’ skills, so I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried something that I honestly thought I would utterly dislike: substitute teaching. It was only a means to an end in my mind. Who knew that my education in computer graphic design would also serve as the requirement to begin substitute teaching? Sixteen years later, this position has evolved beyond my wildest dreams!

I have grown to LOVE my work with children, particularly with multilingual learners, and it has allowed me the flexibility and freedom my soul yearns for. My ultimate creative interest emerged in the midst: landscape and nature photography. I have been taking photos as far back as I can remember, but in 2016 I once again stepped outside the box and made an investment in what is now my passion and therapy for all of life: a brand new DSLR camera! I was outside capturing the beauty of our world as often as possible and discovering my connection with nature, which promotes my emotional, mental and physical health. It is a wonderful feeling to finally put all the pieces of my puzzle together and recognize my evolution as an educator and photographer!

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

As many would say, my “day job” is in education as a long-term substitute teacher, working primarily with multilingual learners. While I do love my work, my passion lies in the creativity of landscape and nature photography. I have learned that my photography affects others in a positive way, to the tune of uplifting moods and forging smiles. There are no words that can express the amazing feeling that is derived from that knowledge! The most exciting thing in the world to me is the ability to freeze the moment with my camera and share the tranquility and beauty as seen through my lens!

My business name is Roya’s Renditions. I utilize social media, including Facebook, Flickr and YouTube to showcase my photography and I also sell canvas and photo prints.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

First and foremost is perseverance. We must have the desire to work through difficulties and overcome obstacles, regardless of what life throws at us. I was terrified on my first day as a substitute teacher, and there were many, many arduous moments. Now I am confident and enjoy my work to the fullest extent possible.

Patience is a crucial quality — without patience, it is extremely taxing on one’s psyche to be an effective educator.

Last, but definitely not least is strong communication skills. I developed my own personal communication style in conjunction with elementary grade level students. This task required patience and perseverance as well!

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

When I feel overwhelmed, I stop whatever I am doing and I go for a brisk walk. The exercise always clears my mind. Then I will make a list of priorities in order to effectively manage my time. This helps relieve any anxiety or overwhelming feelings. If there is no time for exercise, I practice the yoga breathing techniques I learned years ago.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Personal photo by Patrick O’Donnell
All other photos by myself, Roya Oshrieh

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