As classrooms across the country gradually transition to digital learning spaces, a lot of attention has been given to providing technological access to all students so that resources don’t stand between them and their achievement. We’ve had to rise to the challenge as a nation to face the digital divide for students, and there are still so many ways to further support their needs.
For a film, television and digital media student at the University of California, Los Angeles and a great friend of THE MJ PROJECT, this support came in the form of a light meter after a patient and resourceful journey.
“[In November of 2019], one of my professors said, “raise your hand if you do not own a light meter.” I raised my hand with a handful of other classmates, who also felt the financial burden to purchase one. My professor continued, “you’re not a real cinematographer.” I looked over at a friend, and we exchanged perplexed looks.”
The light meter, worth hundreds of dollars, was simply something that many students could not afford despite its importance, but they found creative ways to continue succeeding in their program.
“I would ask friends to borrow theirs in exchange for buying them lunch.”
Is this a common problem for university students?
“For cinematography students, it’s a constant reminder…Most students are challenged financially to fund their required school projects…Once students start the film program, there is hardly any help. A friend dropped out of the film school for this reason.”
And now that all classes moved online?
“COVID-19 made it extremely challenging for people in the creative fields by limiting the resources to work on projects. My friends and I no longer have access to sound mixers and editing rooms…Most people [can’t] afford to purchase the equipment the school provided.
So when she was presented with an opportunity to apply for THE MJ PROJECT Creative Grant in her last quarter at UCLA, she knew this was a way to exit a challenging tunnel of limited resources to attain the light meter she’s needed.
“I am officially done with school this June, [and] I would like to work for a small production company that makes horror films. Thanks to the MJ Project, I bought a light meter to use for my professional career and school assignments. I appreciate the team for offering a helping hand to students in the creative field.”
“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” Theodore Roosevelt
#becreative
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