I graduated from Wichita State University in December 2022 with a major in Filmmaking.
I chose the School of Digital Arts because it was one of the few colleges that offered
a degree in my desired field. Although other schools in the Wichita area had similar
programs, such as broadcasting and communication, I knew from a young age that I wanted
to tell stories through filmmaking. The School of Digital Arts at WSU helped make
that dream a reality.
After graduation, I worked part-time as a freelance production assistant while also
juggling several dead-end retail jobs to pay the bills. Unfortunately, I felt my career
was stagnant living in Wichita, KS. So, after a significant leap of faith, I moved
two and a half hours away to Oklahoma. In October 2024, I relocated to Oklahoma City.
After six months of searching, applying, and persistently seeking employment, I finally
landed the perfect entry-level job as a part-time production assistant for the Oklahoma
Educational Television Authority (OETA).
At OETA, I truly honed my craft. As a production assistant, I worked both on set and
in the field for the Oklahoma News Report. I operated broadcast cameras, set up studio
lights, mic'd up guests, and ran the teleprompter, among other responsibilities. I
was even tasked with collecting B-roll for the end credits of the ONR show. My editing
skills improved, and I gained confidence in shooting in the field.
After just nine months at OETA, I was promoted to full-time documentary videographer.
In this role, I shoot and edit episodes for the award-winning arts and culture documentary
program called "Gallery America." I absolutely love my job and consider it my biggest
accomplishment since graduating. Even now, I continue to freelance on the side, working
on short films and wedding videography.
For students aspiring to enter the same field, I advise you to put yourself out there
as much as possible. Participate in every short film opportunity, attend all the film
festivals, and freelance as much as you can. Network, network, and network some more.
The more jobs you take on and the more experience you gain, the more likely you'll
be able to secure a full-time position with a production company and live out your
dreams.
