Lights, Camera, Mentorship

The eight-week media camp took place  with high school students from my alma mater and it was such a transformative experience and it made me feel closer than ever to my long term goals. My team and I spent a significant amount of time prepping and planning for camp as well as afterward talking time to breakdown and reflect .The opportunity was one step closer to my long-term goals due to the fact that it gave space to not only enhance existing skills but also develop skills like filmmaking, podcasting, editing, photography, and much more. 

The most rewarding part was my ability to transfer these very skills to youth,many of whom came from the same urban backgrounds as myself.

In attending the camp, it provided me an opportunity to network and even set up a meeting with a studio for an internship for next summer. I also had the opportunity to meet with other like minded individuals who can be future collaborators or partnerships. In building those relationships it can open doors that will not only push my future forward but also expand my professional circle. 

Teaching and presenting my skills to the youth, led to significant personal growth.  I was regularly tested in terms of adaptability due to having new situations and obstacles daily. I quickly learned my detailed schedule for everyday was really just a guideline so I always had a backup plan to ensure the camp's success. Which instilled goal setting habits that benefited my team and the youth that kept everyone motivated and on track. 

The experience provided me with the opportunity to gain knowledge in areas of media which kept me open to learning new skills that will stick with me throughout my future career. Interacting collaboratively with diverse individuals enhanced my emotional intelligence. I learned to manage my emotions and empathize with the youth which is something that loomed over me before the start of the camp. Even though after the first day all of my worries dissipated, and I was able to build a bond with them quickly and fluidly. Another, personal milestone that I reached was my ability to engage in critical problem solving. I had to quickly analyze situations, go through and evaluate options, and make informed decisions quite frequently- an essential skill for professional success. Overall the camp was a valuable opportunity that completely aligned with my long-term goal, and I see it as a stepping stone for my future. 

My goal was always to have fun while pursuing internships that lined up with my career goals and I am incredibly grateful for the Whitman Internship Grant making this opportunity possible. It is a reminder of the camp motto: “The best way to predict the future is to create it”.