A Bittersweet Ending to an Unforgettable Journey: Reflection

This is almost the end, and honestly, it’s kind of bittersweet. At first, I just wanted this project to be OVER. Filming was something I’d never done before, and this class was my first real introduction to it. Before this, I was the type of student who stuck to academic subjects and avoided stepping out of my comfort zone. But this class gave me an opportunity to try something completely new, and it allowed me to experience the creative process through the lens of a filmmaker.

Even though we were taught the essentials before starting this project, I feel like I’ve learned so much more over the past eight weeks. From doing in-depth research for my project to filming the actual opening and diving headfirst into the editing process, every stage was a learning curve. Writing blog posts four times a week created a routine that instilled discipline in me. I’m not usually someone who plans ahead—I tend to procrastinate! But this experience taught me how powerful careful planning can be, and it’s a lesson I’ll take with me, not just in filmmaking but in other areas of life.

I’ve gained a whole new appreciation for the people who bring films to life—directors, filmmakers, bloggers, editors, and everyone else involved in creating the entertainment we enjoy. Before this class, I had never even heard of certain terms, but now concepts like camera shots, sound editing, and mise-en-scene have become second nature. Thinking about how much effort and thought goes into large-scale projects like this is genuinely awe-inspiring.

The CCRs, paired with the blogging process, gave me space to analyze my work with a magnifying glass, which was absolutely necessary. The creative aspects of the CCRs, in particular, pushed me to think deeper and truly understand my film better rather than just “saying words” and pressing record. They allowed me to reflect on my project from every angle, making the final product even more meaningful to me.

This journey may be coming to an end, but I feel incredibly grateful for the immersive opportunity I’ve had over the last eight weeks. Thanks to the guidance of my teacher, Ms. Stoklosa, I’ve grown not only as a filmmaker but also as a student and creative thinker. It’s been an unforgettable experience, and though it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished.