On November 14, Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) hosted 65 high school students from the surrounding area for an event focused on exploring careers in film, television, digital entertainment, Esports, and game development. The initiative was a collaboration between GGC professors, student volunteers, and the Georgia Film Academy (GFA).
Dr. Marc Gilley, interim dean of GGC’s School of Liberal Arts, highlighted the importance of combining academic knowledge with practical experience. “Collaborating with the GFA builds that bridge between the liberal arts education and foundational knowledge students receive along with additional hands-on experiences,” he said. “GFA builds upon that with instruction from industry professionals. Together, this helps students be ready to enter their field.”
Scott Votaw, assistant vice chancellor of GFA and a veteran of the Los Angeles film industry, emphasized how such events can broaden students’ awareness of career opportunities. “Most high school students don’t know where the jobs are or even where to begin looking,” he said. “By collaborating with GGC, we build on the success they have and get them ready to move into the industry.” He added: “It’s like connective tissue, we build on the knowledge and experience students have and help them adapt to the ever-changing film industry.”
Students participated in hands-on activities using professional equipment such as a jib crane camera. Bryan Krass, an instructor at GFA and former GGC instructor, noted: “Today, we wanted to show students that the film industry is accessible and fun. Students get to see that this is a viable and fulfilling career option.”
Mya Jackson, a senior at Central Gwinnett High School in Lawrenceville who attended the event, shared her perspective: “I’m into acting and also like art and creating special effects,” she said. “Today I got to look into a camera and operate it to see how it moves. It’s really interesting.” Jackson plans to enlist in the U.S. Army after graduation but still hopes to pursue artistic interests alongside her military service. “Even though I want to be a nurse, there are still opportunities for me to explore careers in the arts while I’m in the Army,” she said.
Christian Gonzalez, a senior at GGC majoring in cinema and media arts with a concentration in entertainment industries studies, volunteered at the event. She reflected on her involvement: “I didn’t have anything like this in high school, so this is my chance to help share information, interact and learn from the students and the GFA professionals here,” she said. “I’ve really enjoyed my experience at GGC.” Gonzalez expects to graduate in fall 2026 with plans for a career in sports media.
Sean Carnes of Lawrenceville—a Coast Guard veteran now studying at GGC—also took part as a volunteer: “I love being in the writer’s room or becoming a showrunner,” he said. “I want to put my mark on the industry and on the future of storytelling. We’re all living our story.”
The event aimed not only to introduce high schoolers to technical skills but also provided insights into potential pathways within creative industries.
