My passion for media started when I was around eight years old. I started off with a small camcorder back in 2010. My brother, Matthew, got it for my 10th birthday and I would film anything and everything that I could. When I graduated high school, I was in a relationship with this girl, and she said that Full Sail University was too expensive and that I couldn't make it through it because I had to work full time. We broke up in October of 2023, and I decided then, after I got my life back on track, I was going to Full Sail to pursue my dreams. I started in the digital cinematography program for a bachelors in September of 2024. I just received my equipment to be able to start filming and it's like I'm on top of the world. I only have professional experience through schooling, but my motivation is to be able to make meaningful films all while telling a story. I plan on being a producer, director, and/or an editor. I know that I can do it, and I can live the life I want to live if I push hard enough towards my goals. Learning the professional equipment is a ton of work, but it's the journey getting there. I want to make it in the industry. This scholarship will help me pay for my schooling. I have had one academic year so far and still have 3 more to go. I have taken out $5,500 in student loans already and would really enjoy not having to take out a crazy amount more. I come from a very low income household, so the only way for me to pay back student loans, is to make it in the industry. I love this work. I love learning everything about it and I am so glad that I chose this career path. Film production is something I have always been passionate about. I live in a small town and have done so much set scouting to be able to make some sort of short film from around here to get started in short film festivals. I deserve the scholarship because I work hard, I'm passionate, and I think everyone should get the chance to live out their dreams no matter the cost. Some individuals take out student loans for med school, I'd rather do it for Film Production. Thank you, -Zayden