"Spiritually, I learned how to integrate my faith and values into the way I work and express myself creatively through film. Educationally, I received an incredibly high-quality education, with passionate professors and access to opportunities and equipment that helped me take my projects to the next level."
Quick Facts
Program: B.A. in Film
Concentration: Film Production
Minor: Sociology
Campus: Main Campus
Hometown: San Bernardino
Current City: San Bernardino
Graduation Year: 2020
Current Job Title and Company: Founder of Come & See Media
Life at CBU
Why did you choose your major or graduate degree program? What interested you in this
particular field of study?:
I chose my program because I wanted to learn how to tell meaningful stories in a faith-based
environment. I was drawn to a field that combines creativity, purpose and communication.
I especially enjoyed learning the history and principles of filmmaking and how visual
storytelling can communicate ideas in clear and engaging ways, which continues to
fuel my passion for this work.
What did you like about being in this program at CBU?:
I really liked how intimate the classes were and how that allowed for a high quality
education. The professors were knowledgeable and generous in sharing real world experience
and opportunities. Our assignments encouraged creativity and trying new things, and
the feedback from professors was always supportive and motivating. I also really appreciated
the equipment cage; coming from a high school without access to film equipment, being
able to rent gear and build technical skills was invaluable.
What did you think about your professors?:
Dr. Croteau and Professor Eaton were incredible mentors in my filmmaking journey.
Dr. Croteau showed me the importance of film history, theory and culture, while Professor
Eaton taught me the technical side of sound, visuals and editing. Together, they expanded
how I see filmmaking and pushed me to become a better storyteller.
Did you complete an internship or any field work?:
I completed an internship with local artist and CBU alumnus Geoff Gouveia. I worked
with him filming and editing projects related to his art, coffee business and mural
work. Geoff encouraged me to put my work out publicly and challenged me to create
videos that truly engage people while having fun in the process. He also pushed me
beyond filmmaking by having me experiment with graphic design, photography, art and
music, which helped me grow creatively and professionally.
Did you participate in anything else at CBU?:
I was not as involved as I would have liked since I was a commuter and needed to return
home to help care for my younger siblings. However, I really enjoyed collaborating
on other students’ films, whether acting, operating camera, running boom or assisting
in other production roles.
How did you grow while in this program at CBU?:
In this program at CBU, I grew in many ways. It was a big culture shock coming from
my community in San Bernardino, and I learned how to connect with people from different
backgrounds while staying true to where I came from. Spiritually, I learned how to
integrate my faith and values into the way I work and express myself creatively through
film. Educationally, I received an incredibly high-quality education, with passionate
professors and access to opportunities and equipment that helped me take my projects
to the next level.
Did your program help you figure out your purpose?:
I think it definitely helped me understand how to use the gifts I was given and the
different ways I could apply them, whether through directing, screenwriting, teaching
or other avenues. It also gave me the knowledge and confidence to step into the career
world and pursue my goals.
Life after CBU
What have you done since graduating?:
After graduating, I was blessed to secure a job within a month as a Digital Producer
for a commercial cleaning business. During this time, I learned more about the corporate
side of filmmaking and social media marketing, and saved enough to start building
my own equipment collection. I also founded my own company, Come & See Media, which
produces commercials, content and documentaries for local businesses and nonprofits.
Later, I partnered with KVCR to direct and produce a four-part documentary series
called The Warehouse Empire, exploring the logistics industry in the Inland Empire.
This project recently won an Emmy in the Documentary category. Since then, I have
worked in various roles including producer, camera operator, social media manager
and even teaching.
What are your current job duties?:
I currently work for KVCR as a professional expert, directing and producing projects
as needed. I also teach afterschool at my former high school, leading the Documentary
Club and Film Society Club. In addition, I run my own company, Come & See Media, creating
video and photo content for a variety of clients.
How has your program and time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after college?:
I think my time at CBU really helped me build a strong foundation to grow both personally
and professionally. The knowledge and skills I gained allowed me to approach projects
with confidence and make the most of every experience.
Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life
today?:
I still refer back to my screenwriting and production textbooks to sharpen my skills.
Many of the concepts and principles I learned at CBU continue to guide my work. Now
that I teach, I also think about what I enjoyed learning and try to pass that experience
and knowledge back to my students.
How are you making a difference in the world? How are you living your purpose?:
One of the most challenging parts of attending CBU was the culture shock, but it
was also valuable because it gave me a new perspective on my own community. Despite
the negative perceptions people have of San Bernardino, I chose to return and make
a difference. This is why I built Come & See Media—because just as people doubted
anything good coming out of Nazareth, they doubt anything good coming out of San Bernardino.
With that same sentiment, I extend the same call to action: Come and See. I create
videos that highlight the positive in my community and teach students who are in the
same position I was years ago, giving them the guidance and opportunities I wish I
had.
What are your future goals and plans?:
I hope to grow my production company, Come & See Media, by expanding our client base
and building a reliable crew from my own community. I also want to create an internship
program for local high school and college students, giving them hands-on experience
and opportunities to learn. For me, it’s not just about making money, but about building
a household name that uplifts the community, changes the narrative of San Bernardino
and empowers others along the way.
Would you recommend CBU to others?: Yes, I would recommend CBU because it helped me grow, learn and provided opportunities that opened doors in my career and personal life, while also helping me deepen my faith and grow in my relationship with Christ.