My first day at Berkeley Digital Film Institute (BDFI) was more than I had expected by all means. It blew me away hearing what I was being prepared for in terms of leadership, method, and the way into a job for great studios. Patrick did a phenomenal job of describing our place in the film industry today and in describing the changes that were taking place between L.A. and Northern California. He put into perspective how much this school focuses on leadership and our role on set as opposed to the more technical side and vocational schooling. It was his confidence in himself and his school that really pushed things over the edge for me and helped me to decide to step out on my own in BDFI and have confidence in who I am and why I am here.

After leaving class on Monday I had lunch with a few of my classmates and was extremely excited to see the energy and confidence that they had and had been given in class in just that one day. Like me, some came into it nervous and not knowing what to expect, but sitting down to hear Patrick’s confidence in the school and in us was exactly the thing we all needed. Every student is hand picked by Patrick and it shows us that he sees something in each and every one of us, so when he steps up to show confidence in where we’re going and why we’re here it’s a huge boost and something a little surreal. It’s almost like you’re getting your first taste of success when he shows that confidence in you.

After going to BDFI for only 1 day I’ve still got that anxious feeling, but I’ve never felt more energized, confident, or ready to take control of my destiny in the life I’ve chosen in film. I was born to direct, BDFI’s showing me how.