Making Connections

Being a journalism and communications student, I have a love for movies and entertainment. The best movies, in my opinion, are like books. They depict a certain message or moral to the viewers, providing lessons and inspiration to others. Whether it's a lesson about the true meaning of love, acceptance, or happiness, movies share with us the ups and downs of life. Some of the best quotes, and some of my particular favorites, include:

• "Life's a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get" ~ Forrest Gump, 1994
• "Oh yes, the past can hurt. But from the way I see it, you can either run from it, or...learn from it" ~ The Lion King, 1994
• "Don't ever let somebody tell you...You can't do something. You got a dream...You gotta protect it...If you want something, go get it. Period" ~ The Pursuit of Happyness, 2006
• "The world is not a wish-granting factory" ~ The Fault in Our Stars, 2014

My love for movies have led me to become a volunteer at the first-annual All-American High School Film Festival (AAHSFF). The festival, held in Times Square, New York City, allowed me to showcase my passion for film and entertainment while exploring NYC. 

Volunteering at the festival has provided me to network and build connections with industry-executives and other professionals. For instance, my work with assisting at the local college fair has allowed me to network with different universities and schools, a potential for the future if I decide to pursue higher education post-undergraduate. In addition, I have met professionals of the film industry, or potential future employers. Also, I have built relationships with students and volunteers of other similar interests, all while exploring the city of New York and Theater District of Times Square. 

Although the film festival was only held for one weekend from Friday to Sunday, my experience with the festival allowed me to create relationships and make connections with students, professionals, and the city. My connections and networking paid off. 

In February, I landed an internship with the AAHSFF team. As an intern, I am learning many skills that will help me in my future career. For example, I have learned valuable time management skills as a result of the tedious tasks completed. Moreover, I am learning how to further connect and keep in contact with my networks. As an intern, I have utilized my journalism and public relations skills to spread the word about the event, hoping to gather more volunteers and attendees for the festival. The internship has allowed me to learn and grow into both an individual and an employee. 

**To learn more about the All-American Film Festival, future volunteer opportunities, and event/ticketing information, check out the website!

**Click here for the link to the AAHSFF facebook page

**And be sure to follow AAHSFF on twitter

Photo credit: http://geniusquotes.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/David-Brinkley-quote.jpg

How do you give?

Everyone has the ability to change the lives of others in one way or another. What's your way of giving?

Remembering Maya Angelou: An Inspiration

Today marks a day of remembrance for renowned poet, author, and Civil Rights activist Maya Angelou. In the world of literature, Angelou leaves behind a legacy; for, she has often written about racism, identity, and self-revelation, connecting with the audience in a moving and emotional way. Her works, such as "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings" and "On the Pulse of Morning," became widely popular, quickly inspiring her readers and fellow authors to write with meaningful and fulfilling words. 

Angelou was not only known for her works, but also for teaching us to live life to the fullest and with purpose. She has spread an infinite amount of inspirational and motivational quotes that are often referred to when discussing the philosophical meaning of life. Whether through her passages or from her personal speeches, Angelou spoke to a large audience. As we continue to honor her legacy as a poet, author, and activist, she will be remembered for her messages revolving around life, hope, love, dreams, courage, and identity.

So take the words of Angelou and apply them in your own life and make a difference. We can rely on each other and listen to the words of Angelou to inspire change and justice in our own communities. Whether it's lending a helping hand to a close friend, reconnecting with a loved one, or spreading cheer to a kind stranger, it is never too late to bring about change. Who knows? Maybe you can learn something about yourself along the way. As Angelou said, "Be a rainbow in someone else's cloud."

An inspiration to us all, Angelou shows us how to find our true identities and live life to the fullest. She makes us aware of the world around us and the true meaning of giving, teaching, and learning.

**Read about Maya Angelou's life and accomplishments here

**Learn more about Maya Angelou here

**Check out some of the greatest life lessons from Maya Angelou here

Photo credit: http://meetville.com/images/quotes/Quotation-Maya-Angelou-life-Meetville-Quotes-37354.jpg

Happy Summer!

Happy Summer volunteering! 

Photo credit: http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/236x/38/87/75/3887756a8cb3e6945a83ab417f40f9ad.jpg 

Moving Out

What a busy past few weeks! As I finish up my last semester of freshman year at college, I first wanted to give a shout out to all of the wonderful people I have met throughout the year. From orientation to the end of freshman year, I have been blessed to meet amazing friends who I know I can always count on. I thank IC for giving me some awesome opportunities over the past two semesters, and for helping me find a passion and happiness in giving back to the community! 

As college students prepare to move-out of dorms and return home for the summer, I have decided to compile a list of ways to help out fellow peers and families pack up for the trip home. 

• Visit your friends and offer a helping hand - It is always best to ask if they need help packing, even if they turn you down. By offering your time and lending a hand, it will make the move-out process go way faster.
• Load items into their car - No matter what, everything in the dorm needs to go, so why not help pack up a car? This will allow friends to pack more efficiently and effectively.
• Provide refreshments and snacks - Packing always makes you hungry and tired! Bring your peers a snack or offer some refreshments. 
• Be conversational - With so many families coming in and out of the dorm, the room can become crowded and awkward. To suppress some of the awkwardness, provide conversation with your friends' families -- chances are, you've met them a couple of times, so it won't be too awkward.
• Give thanks to faculty - As we prepare to say goodbye to friends for the summer, be sure to also give thanks to those who have been your leaders and mentors throughout the year. Whether it is a custodian, residential assistant, or professor, everyone has taken care of you in some way. Be sure to thank them before officially moving out.

Moving out is always bittersweet, especially when you've grown accustomed to calling your dorm "home." Best of luck to the graduating class of 2014 and I hope everyone has a safe and happy summer! 

Photo credit: followpics.co