I’ve learned a lot about myself by taking Intro to Documentary and Film. Collaborating with my peers on multiple projects throughout the semester was a great way for me to develop team-building skills, learn more from others, and also, about what roles I contribute.
Prior to the class, I’ve learned about the different roles that play within a team, such as the Pioneer, the Guardian, the Driver, and the Integrator.
Pioneer, Guardian, Driver, Integrator
This course took place during my first semester at Wesleyan, when I felt most comfortable testing out the different roles I could contribute to my new surroundings. The documentary and filmmaking class was the perfect new environment for me to experiment with.
Throughout the projects, I’ve had to step out of my comfort zone.
The projects consisted of different process videos around campus. The theme was food, and for the latter half of the semester, we were put into small groups to create a final documentary within the topic. We learned how to use a camera, produce different camera shots, and even edit our clips!
Although I’ve always had a great interest in film and photography, this new environment took more of me to be heard than high school did. Some of my peers were much more interested in film, making it difficult to achieve an equal balance of contributions. Nonetheless, I was able to persevere and express my ideas.
I primarily worked to foster a healthy workspace with my peers by sharing my creative insights, assessing, and elaborating on others’ ideas. An important skill I developed was problem-solving and developing efficiency within a team.
This course is an experience I’m happy I pursued and ultimately grew from– due to its challenges. I took every opportunity as a trial and discovered who I was capable of being, not only within the class, but at Wesleyan.
Since then, I’ve continued to take my problem-solving skills with me to other communities I’m now involved in!
context
1. Exploring different lighting techniques
2. Recording BTS of a commercial deal with Angel Reese and SoulFully Vegan (used in final documentary)
3. Interviewing the Co-owner of SoulFully Vegan
