Students from the Virtual Academy of Rochester display original photography in a professional downtown Rochester exhibit

Rochester, New York – The City Art Space in downtown Rochester transformed into a vibrant celebration of student creativity as learners from the Virtual Academy of Rochester (VAR) unveiled their photographic work in a professional gallery setting. The exhibit, held in collaboration with Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), highlighted the achievements of students enrolled in a unique dual-credit Digital Photography course.

Throughout the school year, these students explored the world of digital photography not only as an artistic outlet but also as a pathway to higher education. By participating in the program, they earned college credit while still in high school, giving them both academic advancement and firsthand experience in the field.

This partnership between VAR and RIT has opened doors for students to work with advanced photography equipment and editing software, while also learning from college faculty and students during immersive workshops at RIT’s campus.

On Thursday evening, the students had their moment in the spotlight. Family members, friends, and educators filled City Art Space to view the photographs lining the gallery’s walls—each one capturing a unique perspective and telling a personal story. The work reflected a year of dedication, creativity, and growth.

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“I think photography gives us a voice,” said DaJuan Jackson, an Edison Career and Technology High School senior. “We get to show what we have created, and it proves that we have put in the work. RCSD gives us that platform to be seen and heard. We are trusted with professional equipment, and at the same time, we are supported and encouraged to be independent.”

The exhibit included a wide range of photographic styles and subjects—from portraiture and landscapes to conceptual and documentary pieces. The variety demonstrated not only technical skill but also the confidence students gained through their artistic exploration.

“I see their work all year long, and when you see the photos on the walls, I get so impressed,” said Susan Rudy, an art teacher with VAR. “Seeing them displayed and printed, and knowing what they put into it, it is very exciting.”

The Digital Photography course offers more than a creative outlet—it is also a career-building opportunity. By working with high-quality tools and under the guidance of both VAR and RIT educators, students gain valuable insights into the world of professional photography. These experiences help prepare them for potential careers in the arts and media fields or continued studies at the college level.

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The collaboration between VAR and RIT represents a broader effort to connect high school students with higher education through hands-on, engaging programs. For many students, the exhibit at City Art Space marked not just the end of a class, but the beginning of a lifelong passion—and perhaps even a future profession.

As the exhibit came to a close, the pride on the faces of the students and their supporters was unmistakable. It was a powerful reminder of what young artists can accomplish when they are given the tools, the trust, and the opportunity to shine.