Outside of an academic context, I have learnt that artistically, I want to be able to get to a position where I am allowed to do it my way, in my vision, and stay true to myself. I obviously realise that to make any sort of living, I may have to sacrifice my artistic morals occasionally, but I think by keeping the work unapologetically true to oneself is a good place to start.
this may prove difficult, and finding funding/grant opportunities that align with my artistic profile may be hard to come by, but you have to start somewhere. Furthermore, residency and grant placements with briefs or certain requirements will push me out of my comfort zone, and into different conceptual landscapes.