Leadership Scholar Program - Semester 6
Semester 6 was my penultimate semester as an Ithaca College Leadership Scholar on campus. I focused on honing my leadership skills through involvement as the Pro Manager of PPECS, leading a new Film Student Union to overhaul the IC film program, and by exploring professional opportunities within my industry. My community service involved a return to Kendal at Ithaca!
Experiences
On Campus Involvement
Park Portable Equipment Center and Services (PPECS)
My fourth semester working at PPECS was my first as the Student Pro Manager, working as an intermediary position between the full-time professional staff and the student employees. My duties remained largely the same as previous semesters, with the added intensity of being the primary decision-maker for all day-to-day activities and scheduling. I was the sole facilitator for ensuring the proper training for all new and former pro employees by instructing how to properly inspect, maintain, and build our advanced cinema equipment. Management duties included working with full-time staff to complete comprehensive reviews for current and employees and advise on new hires for future semesters. My position required leading all communication between staff and employees, while also advocating for new initiatives and gear. Once our structure was set, I led one-on-one workshops with students and faculty to maintain consistent safety and build procedures across levels. I also serve as the main connection between Cinema faculty and PPECS, working with professors to curate their specific needs.
STUDENT PROJECTS & THESIS FILMS
As a film student, my primary involvement every semester is taking on leadership roles on student film sets. Ranging anywhere from 5 to 7 productions per semester, my semesterly work on film sets represents the culmination of many meetings, workshops, and academic exploration to achieve production. Most sets range from 12 - 20 crew members, and I often work as the Director of Photography, leading both the camera and lighting departments. I work closely with directors to achieve their desired visual style, while also contributing to the pre-production process of selecting crew members. While not technically an IC-affiliated club or group, film sets are where I gain the most leadership experience. From scheduling, communicating set expectations, facilitating team meetings, and workshopping equipment for new crew members, set is the perfect place to strengthen my leadership toolbox and apply my knowledge gained from the Leadership Scholar Program.
Film Student Union
Beginning last fall, a small group of film students began discussions with graduating seniors about their feelings towards the IC film program. We found many felt frustrated with their undergraduate experience and ill-prepared for beginning their careers. Early this semester, we formed the Ithaca College Film Student Union to create a student-led program overhaul. From January to April, we conducted 10+ meetings with cinema students to gain a complete understanding of most perspectives. These sessions culminated into a 30-page document outlining our grievances and proposed solutions. We sent our document to the faculty, which prompted a meeting where we were able to have productive conversations about the future of the program. The faculty is overhauling the degree and using student input to strengthen its new initiatives. We plan on continuing to push for a more equitable, respected, and thriving program by meeting with the Dean of the Park School.
Defy Dance Company
This semester I had the tremendous honor of completing my final promo video shoot for the Defy Dance Company. This was my fourth video for the group, representing almost two years as their Director of Photography. Coordinating a video with a company of twenty-five dancers requires attending rehearsals and completing many hours of meetings to prepare scheduling, shot lists, visual inspiration, music choice, lighting diagrams, and equipment selection. I am also the main facilitator for constructing a crew to support me during the shoot. In post-production, I also do all of the color correction. This group will always have a special place in my heart as a fantastic way to express my creativity!
Community Service
SERVICE SATURDAYS
I was thrilled to be able to return to my favorite community service experience: Device Advice at Kendal at Ithaca! As a technical services employee (and member of a technologically-literate generation), working with senior citizens to assist in their tech endeavors is extremely fulfilling. While our primary duties are to assist in new iPhone setups, learning how to login to emails, and explaining how to download Netflix, I have learned that most people are just looking for a good connection and conversation. Many of the residents have worked with me several times before and have built strong bonds over the years. With this being my fourth time, I was also able to provide guidance to my fellow Leadership Scholars on the best way to interact and help the Kendal Residents!
SLI: The Mime Approach to Decision-Making
"The Mime Approach to Decision-Making" was presented by Tommy Ziegler and encouraged students to think in new ways when facing conflict. We learned that mimes think outside the box during their performances, using concepts such as the Rule of Threes, the Lightbulb Moment, and Body Awareness. I learned that I can use my body language and creative thinking skills to achieve success as a leader.
