Jasmine Smoot-Leyva
Bio
I’m a professional photographer, filmmaker, musician, podcaster, and author based in Dallas, TX. I'm obsessed with tattoos, my two huskies, and being my own person.
Stories (17)
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LGBTQA+ Mental Health in Public Education
There’s no question that the mental health of students in public education needs to be taken seriously. Poor mental health can affect grades, participation, cause substance abuse, and can cause even more serious problems down the line, such as depression. However, one group of kids are often brushed off when it comes to their mental health: LGBTQA+ students. LGBTQA+ students in the public education system are more susceptible to bullying, harassment, and even suicidal thoughts due to their sexuality/gender expression. In this essay, I would like to highlight the common problems LGBTQA+ students face in their day-to-day lives during adolescence and how school administrators, staff, and counselors can help improve and prevent mental health issues.
By Jasmine Smoot-Leyva6 years ago in Psyche
4 Things to Consider for Your Cannabis Business
If you’ve seen the news or been on the internet lately, I’m sure you’re well aware that the cannabis business is booming right now. With more and more states legalizing pot, more and more businesses are coming out of the woodworks to offer their goods and services. If you run your own cannabis shop, or are looking to start one up someday, here are a few ideas to get your mind on the right page.
By Jasmine Smoot-Leyva6 years ago in Potent
A Study on Gender "X" and Our Gender Binary System
How would the legal recognition of a “third gender” or gender “X” change the lives of non-binary/genderqueer individuals? What are the potential implications and challenges someone would face for identifying as the “third gender”/gender “X”?
By Jasmine Smoot-Leyva6 years ago in Humans
A Literature Review of Non-Binary/Genderqueer Studies
In the last two or three decades, rights for the LGBTQA+ population has skyrocketed. Gay marriage become legal in the United States, the inclusion of GSA (gay-straight alliance) clubs became a staple in most public schools, nondiscrimination laws were passed in various states… the list goes on! However, one particular group within the LGBTQA+ community always seems to be overlooked: the non-binary/genderqueer population.
By Jasmine Smoot-Leyva6 years ago in Humans
What Caused Amber Guyger's Conviction?
It’s easy to understand our current situation. In the United States, African Americans are three times more likely to be killed by police officers than white people (Mapping Police Violence). Additionally, said offending officers are rarely indicted—and when they are, their sentences are less than favorable. Out of 98 non-federal law enforcement officer arrests, only 35 had been convicted of a crime involving fatal, on-duty shootings since 2005. (Ross, para. 8). The case of Amber Guyger, however, proves to be an exception.
By Jasmine Smoot-Leyva6 years ago in Criminal
Getting Started with Zero Waste: Kitchen Essentials. Top Story - June 2018.
I'm sure you've all heard of the term, "zero waste" recently. Zero waste is a lifestyle in which you do not produce any kind of trash or waste (or, at least, you try to produce as little waste as possible).
By Jasmine Smoot-Leyva8 years ago in Lifehack
How to Succeed in College While Pursuing a Career
Invest in a planner and use it. It might seem a bit counterproductive to spend your time planning how you’re going to spend your time. However, this is the best way to figure out your schedule to maximize your productivity during the day. Invest in a planning system (such as a digital calendar/reminder, or even a physical planner) to plan out your goals, day-to-day tasks, and important events/deadlines.
By Jasmine Smoot-Leyva8 years ago in Education
10 Steps to Starting Your Own Photography Business
1. Know Your Way Around a Camera First and foremost, you have to be considered a photographer. If you're not sure where to start, check out this article on picking a decent DSLR camera, and this article about the basics of photography. All in all, you need to know how to operate a camera, learn lighting and editing techniques, and so much more in order to be considered a professional photographer.
By Jasmine Smoot-Leyva8 years ago in Photography
Easy Decor, DIY Gifts, & Recipes to Make the Best Christmas Ever
The holidays are upon us—which means it's time to start decorating and preparing a menu for Christmas dinner! Here I've compiled a list of a few helpful ideas that may give you some inspiration during this holiday season.
By Jasmine Smoot-Leyva8 years ago in Lifehack
