Igniting Your Personal and Professional Growth

Describe one or two, specific learning experiences from your fellowship. In words, show us this experience and explain why it was powerful.

I learned how to work with a variety of different personalities who were eager and willing to learn how to use filming equipment and assist them in both their in front of the camera work and behind the scenes work for this short film production.

What did you learn about yourself? What did you learn professionally?

I learned that I really enjoy helping young people stretch themselves and learn how to work together to create a finished project. I learned professionally that I am able to lead a group of young people toward achieving a common goal and that through patience, organization, and encouragement that they can take a story and really move the needle on the narrative toward something special.

What were some unplanned or unexpected experiences or outcomes of your fellowship? Or, how did the fellowship you crafted differ from the actual learning experience?

First off, the fellowship I crafted differed from the actual learning experience because originally I was supposed to attend a 1-week intensive workshop to operate equipment and learn the skills necessary to create a short film. Due to COVID, that intensive program was no longer available and with this grant, I was able to purchase equipment for my film club. I had to teach myself through video training and hands on experience how to properly operate it and then teach others how to do the same.

Impacting Your Classroom, School and Community

Outline specific plans you have to implement your fellowship and reach your student goals.

I plan on this specific short film that we finished shooting being the showcase for students at my school who would be interested in becoming a member of the film club and taking part in something of this nature. Additionally, I plan on giving students exposure to all aspects of filmmaking through use of the equipment. Furthermore, I plan on making a student film each year that has a poignant message that students, faculty, and the community at large can relate to and has a lasting impact.

What is one way you can leverage your fellowship to create one authentic learning experience for students? (e.g. hands-on learning, projects, community engagement)

Each year, we will make a student film that will be showcased at our school to the faculty, staff, and students (in their brand new auditorium). Moreover, I plan on getting the films released at different venues and submitted to film festivals. My goal is for each film to have a powerful impacting message that people of all ages can relate to and learn from.

How, specifically, will your fellowship extend beyond your classroom? (e.g. families, school-at-large, afterschool groups, surrounding community, colleagues, etc.)

As previously mentioned, my fellowship will I've on through the medium of film as it will be broadcast at our school, local library, hall, and possibly even select movie theaters.