Graduate Studies…or not.
Much to the chagrin of my parents (I’m sure) I’ve not only:
- Completed a 4 year undergraduate degree in Film Production at the University of WI – Milwaukee and
- Successfully convinced them I don’t need a further advanced degree to work in filmmaking/videography
But also:
- Researched a Motion Graphics Masters of Fine Arts (The only school I like was in Georgia and hell if I’m living there.)
- Researched and applied to two Photography MFA programs
- Been rejected for both programs
- And now am considering the idea of MIT’s Comparative Media Studies program.
But regardless of what may look like a random jumping around of an indecisive child, they all come back to my being interested in visual mediums like film and photography and also what affect these mediums have on culture, media and societal norms. In my attempt to find a supportive community for my abstract and untethered thoughts, I applied to become a graduate student in photography at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design and University of MA – Amherst. Needless to say, I am not attending either, but I thought I’d share the portfolio with you today.
Since my rejection letters arrived in the mail, I’ve come to the decision that it was for the better because not only am I not sinking myself into debt for a degree that would only have maybe ended in a professorial position (my heart’s desire), but I’m also now able to save for a bike trip which I think will be exactly what I was looking for to begin with: A place to spend time meditating on themes, creating images and stories, and refining my skills.
When we’re finished with our cross country bike tour, I’ll be able to refocus on what I really want to do. Maybe I’ll be a sustainable farmer? Or a wedding videographer? Or an events and lectures coordinator? Or I’ll apply for a Comparative Media Studies program and become a sociologist?
Jessica
Rachel
Whatever you decide to do, be sure to follow your heart and not what others tell you to do or what you think you “should” do. Do what makes you happy because there are many years ahead for you to do it and if you don’t enjoy it, you will be miserable! So, take your time finding what you really want to do and then go for it!!