By Brittany Lugo

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Commonly known as Pal because of his approachable nature, he’s an open book! Non- art teachers can still be extremely involved in art; just like anybody else, and people often forget that.  For starters, Pal is a guidance counselor for underclassmen, a coach for the College Coaching Program, as well as the assistant baseball coach. Yet, he has a rich art background. He’s a pretty laid-back guy, which is visually evident when students walk past his office because it is fully decked out in movie posters and inspirational quotes. His casual style is also apparent when students visit him. Pal is easy to speak with.

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As I walk into his nerdy poster-adorned office, I take a seat and ask him several questions regarding his art career. It was a rather casual encounter, given I’m talking to Pal. He takes part in several hobbies outside of school like singing, acting, and writing. He also added that he likes “...to walk and [tries] to hike as often as possible.” Palestina is involved in a band with some friends and recently released a song this past summer. He majored in Theatre at Montclair State University and briefly worked with his acting professor on a mini-series that he stars in.

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Every artist has an inspiration. I inquired about Pal’s inspiration and his answer was simply just “family and friends.” He’s very caring and family-minded so an answer like that wasn’t shocking - they’re his support group. Then, I wanted to know what was the best piece of advice he has ever gotten - what really opened his eyes and mind? He was silent for a short time, then recounted a specific time when he had worked at a prior school and he said, “The old school psychologist told me ‘People are who they are.’ I was getting really frustrated with some students and when he told me that, it made it easier for me to empathize and understand others.”

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Talent comes to us in many different ways. Some people are born with talent and some have to work for it. Despite how lax Pal’s demeanor is, he worked really hard to get to where he is today. “If you love something and you’re passionate about it, obviously you will make time to get better at it.” Analyzing his reasoning, students can use this concept to apply to their lives and choices as they work toward college goals.  In closing, I asked what advice he could give to young artists and he suggested not to expect a peak, to let your art progress naturally because if you set expectations, you may be disappointed with your work if it takes a different direction. “Just make sure that you do something because you love doing it,” he added and let inspiration take you where it may.