Thomas Smith

It all started with Peter Jackson's decision to direct a film adaptation of J. R. R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. As a child, I was completely captivated by the larger than life world that Jackson had created in this monumental filmic achievement, and from that point on, I was interested in film as an art form. Over the years, my interest in film grew as I watched more and more movies with a critical eye. However, it wasn't until senior year of high school that I realized that my life's calling was in film.

The question then became, in what capacity would film play a role in my life? Would I be director, cinematography, or editor? After much consideration, I made my decision. It ended up being one of the hardest decisions I have had to make up to this point in my life. It was a well-made decision, though, and I am confident it was the right one. I have decided to study Mass Media arts, as it will encompass a broad variety of communication studies and give me multiple career options after graduation. I still don't know exactly what role film will play in my life, but it is something that I continue to ponder every day. The path ahead of me is wide and unexplored, and I welcome every new opportunity with open arms.