Syracuse University

Why did you choose SU?
I chose SU mainly because of what Newhouse has to offer. Its reputation for producing successful professionals in the television and film industries appealed to me. I was also impressed by the professors, who have worked in the industry and bring that experience to the classroom.

What has been your most meaningful experience so far?
The Leadership Outdoor Orientation Program (LOOP). It was three days without cells phones or internet, meeting 40 new people and getting to know them on a different level. The group I spent those days with became a network I relied on in my first few weeks of school, and some of those people have become undoubtedly lifelong friends.

What's the secret to your success at SU?
The secret to success at SU is trying all it has to offer. Getting involved with so much might seem like spreading yourself thin but thats where the fun is. Taking a chance on something you never imagined yourself doing changes you as a person and allows you to find out what is really important in life. And while you're doing that, you're gaining strength from the experience.

How have you changed since you've been here?
I have certainly become a more independent person. It started with doing my own laundry that first week. Then it continued when I chose to work on that paper instead of going out. I think responsibility is the key to becoming an independent person, and at SU its easy to take on responsibility knowing you have so many resources to help you out in a crunch.

What do you plan to do after graduation?
In an ideal world, after I graduate, National Geographic picks me up as a camera man to shoot the great climbs of the world like K2 and Everest, and I eventually work through the ranks to direct my own documentaries about the world around us.