Jake Merioles, a sophomore at UC Berkeley, shares his experience of balancing engineering studies with his passion for painting. Every Friday afternoon, he dedicates time to paint scenes across the campus. "I wouldn’t be the person I am today," Merioles says about these sessions.

Originally from Fullerton, California, Merioles is pursuing civil engineering and aspires to work in the aerospace industry. His interest in engineering was sparked during high school through various projects like building a wooden go-cart and catapult. He also draws inspiration from his older brother, an electrical engineering graduate from UC San Diego.

Art has been a significant part of Merioles' life since childhood. Supported by his family, especially his father who is a professional photographer, he developed skills in drawing and oil painting during high school. "Every week, I’d put in hours of painting at home," he recalls.

Merioles uses vibrant colors to express emotions associated with different campus landmarks such as Wheeler Hall and Sather Gate. "How can I paint this in a way that makes people feel a certain way about what I see?" he often asks himself while painting.

He enjoys capturing the interplay of nature and architecture on campus. Despite challenges like accurately depicting the Campanile's features, Merioles continues to explore new perspectives for his art. Recently, an engineering professor allowed him access to Davis Hall's 7th-floor balcony for an exceptional view of the Campanile.

While mostly enjoying solitude during painting sessions, Merioles appreciates when friends join him or passersby engage in conversation. Some have even told him they view art differently because of his work.

Balancing both passions is crucial for Merioles: "I’m just as focused on my passion for structural engineering as I am for painting." This summer, he will intern at SpaceX in Texas and plans to continue painting there: "I don’t know what I’d do if I couldn’t paint for three months."