Jaycie Thornton never imagined herself attending a Big XII university, but after discovering Texas Tech University's School of Art, she has found her creative community at one of the state's major institutions. The freshman art student is now pursuing her dream of working in animation for companies like Pixar or Disney through the university's Digital Narrative Arts program.
Thornton's artistic journey began in early childhood, with her mother Ali recognizing her daughter's natural talent from the start. "She's been an artist since the day she was born," Ali Thornton said, noting how Jaycie worked with various mediums including pencils, crayons, paints, and ceramics throughout her youth. By fifth grade, Jaycie had already identified herself as an artist, saying, "I'm an artist – that's who I am. There was never a different path for me."
Despite her clear passion for art, Thornton's educational journey wasn't always smooth. Her freshman year at a school focused primarily on athletics left her struggling without adequate arts programs. "The school she attended her freshman year was focused on athletics and did not have much in terms of the arts," Ali recalled. "Jaycie started going downhill; her spark just left." This led her parents to transfer her to Vanguard College Preparatory School in Waco, Texas, where she could pursue both strong academics and art.
The path to Texas Tech began unexpectedly at the Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE), where high school students showcase their artwork across Texas. Tonja Hagy-Valdine, a recruiter for Texas Tech's School of Art and alumna of the program, met Ali Thornton at the event. "Texas Tech wasn't on our radar," Ali admitted. "I knew Texas Tech well and had always liked the school, but I hadn't heard about its arts program."
The connection proved transformative when Hagy-Valdine spoke directly to both Jaycie's artistic interests and her mother's practical concerns about an art career. As a photographer with over 20 years of experience, Hagy-Valdine could demonstrate the real-world success possible through the program. "When kids tell their parents 'I want to study art,' the first question is usually how they'll afford to live," she explained. "Well, I went through this program and was able to show Ali my resume – all the things I've done since. I think it shows parents it's a good investment."
The family's campus visit in June sealed the decision. Jaycie was impressed by the spacious art studios, animation technology, and darkrooms available to students. Beyond the academic facilities, she appreciated the University Recreation facilities, campus parks, restaurants, and housing options. A particularly memorable part of the visit was attending Lubbock's First Friday Art Trail, an event that showcases local artists and involves many School of Art students.
"Waco has an OK art scene, but it's mostly all Chip and Joanna Gaines these days," Jaycie joked, referring to the HGTV stars. She found Lubbock's art scene more vibrant while still maintaining the accessibility of a mid-sized city. "We actually loved Lubbock," Ali said. "The art trail really sold the city."
The application process proved nerve-wracking for Thornton, who needed to submit a portfolio for scholarship consideration beyond standard university admission. "I was so nervous I wasn't going to get in," she remembered. The J.T. & Margaret Talkington College of Visual & Performing Arts requires additional application materials beyond general university acceptance, making the process more competitive.
When the acceptance email arrived in August 2024, complete with animated falling confetti on the webpage, Thornton's relief was palpable. "I was so proud of myself; it felt like all my years studying had paid off," she said. She also received the scholarship she had applied for, with her family celebrating the achievement with a specially designed card featuring the Double T logo and Raider Red mascot.
Now living in a dorm room just one block from the School of Art, Thornton is beginning her foundational coursework before specializing in Digital Narrative Arts. Her long-term goal remains clear: creating animated children's stories for major studios. "I've always felt connected to the idea of storytelling," she explained. "I've been making up characters and giving them stories for as long as I can remember."
Her parents express confidence in the decision, with Russell Thornton noting, "Jaycie has big dreams. I am ready for her to achieve her dreams. Every father wants the best opportunities for his kids. I believe I am getting that by sending Jaycie to Texas Tech." Ali Thornton added that the university "made me, as a mom, feel more excited than nervous. It's been everything you could hope for as a parent."
As Thornton begins her college journey, she's ready to engage more fully with the world around her. "I think I've been looking out at the world," she reflected. "But I'm ready to be in it." Her mother looks forward to watching her daughter find her creative community and gain confidence in sharing her artistic voice with others.
