After having to cancel the event in 2020 and streaming it virtually in 2021, TEDxDePaul is making a triumphant in-person return this year! For six years, DePaul has hosted its own TED event where current students, alumni, and staff are chosen to present on a pre-decided theme. The theme for 2022’s TEDxDepaul is “Metamorphosis”.
Selected to speak this year are six representatives of the DePaul community demonstrating diversity in ages, occupations, and academic pursuits. Among this year’s speakers is Carlos Roqués, a current sophomore in DePaul’s Honors Program. I reached out to Carlos to ask him about his preparation process and what he anticipates for the event.
What’s your year and major at DePaul? Do you have a double-major or minor that you’re pursuing?
“I am a sophomore Animation major with a minor in philosophy.”
How did you hear about the DePaul TEDx event and what persuaded you to apply?
“I was home during winter break and saw it pop on my DePaul Newsline feed, with nothing else to do I figured I’d apply.”
Without giving too much away, what are you planning to discuss and present at the convention?
“My presentation revolves around the animation industry; where it came from, where it is, and where it’s going. But also, the impact it’s had on my life, and why I believe it is such an influential art medium.”
What does the theme “metamorphosis” mean to you and how does it connect to your topic? Why do you feel that this is prescient to our current moment?
“Metamorphosis is essential to life; we are all a result of the changes we’ve undergone. My talk examines the metamorphosis animation has gone through and how I believe it should change in the future, but also my own personal metamorphosis as a result of my upbringing surrounded by cartoons.”
Have any of your experiences in the Honors program been helpful in the preparation process for TEDx? Do you feel like, through this experience, you’re gaining skills that will be applicable to your future?
“Many of the Honors classes I’ve taken have given me a much deeper understanding of topics and issues that would have otherwise never had occurred to me. A standout was Philosophical Inquiry with Prof. Walker, it opened my eyes to the global struggle for equality and the colonial roots of Western hegemony. Honors classes have made me a much stronger writer, which has helped in the process of creating this TED talk. I am confident that these courses will have prepared me for entering the entertainment industry.”
What do you hope to get out of this experience and what do you hope your audience walks away with?
“I’m just hoping to just create some positive dialogue and that the audience walks away with a greater appreciation for animation.”
What are you excited about? Nervous?
“So incredibly nervous! But excited to get up on stage and have some fun.”
Would you suggest participating in TEDx to future Honors students? What advice would you give them?
“I encourage all Honors students to apply next year! My advice would be to find something you’re truly passionate about and take a stand on it, or reveal something no one has thought about yet. Be creative and be yourself.”
Thanks so much to Carlos for answering our questions! If you want to hear Carlos and other members of the DePaul community speak at TEDxDePaul, visit the official website
The Honors Hub 
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