Amanda Jean-Mary

Why FSU?

I have always admired the history and legacy of the school and alumni. Many of the alumni have becomes successes in their respective communities because of the experience and top-notch education they received at FSU. I knew that here, I would receive the education needed to develop my own tools of success in my career journey.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

I wanted to pursue a graduate degree because I knew that I needed another level of education to really hone my skills and prepare for a career in film production. I did not have a considerable amount of previous experience in film. I also knew that the skill sets taught at the graduate level in the College of Motion Picture Arts would be the best way to prepare me for the industry.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

I believe that film can influence positive change in the community through empathy building and educating the world about different cultures and attitudes shared widely or not shared at all. For instance, the documentary 13th by Ava Duvernay really shed a light on the importance of prison reform and the disparities in the criminal justice system. My experience and aspirations for the films I want to develop can really change perspectives and create change in the world.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Continuing your education is important; however, I also believe that you should pursue a graduate degree when it is enhancing the education needed for what YOU want to do or pursue in the future professionally or academically. Success is not always a result of the degrees you have under your belt.

Major accomplishments during academic career

I am a 2018-2019 recipient of the FAMU Feeder Fellowship. As a graduate student, I have presented research on the experience of Black men and women at national and international conferences. My peers, classmates, and colleagues nominated me for the Florida State University Hardee Center for Leadership and Ethics in Higher Education Program Peer Leadership Award. I was humbled to receive such an honor.

Career aspirations

Although I have not chosen a specialty yet, I hope to work in television in the area of cinematography.