I will capture the world's attention. I will affect culture. I will create cultural relevance. I believe the best moments in art are when the world stops to see something. Whether it be Barbenheimer leading to countless double features, or Banksy shredding a painting live, moments like these are what I creatively strive for. As an artist, I aim to create cultural relevance locally, globally, and use my work to better the world.

As an artist, I create works that impact local communities. For instance, my film 'The Quality of the Relationship' is a deep dive into how my grandparents had to keep their lesbian relationship a secret from everyone, even their daughters. While making this film, I connected with family members, learned family history, and more. My target demographic was my family, but I was also approached by many LGBTQIA+ individuals after its premiere, who told me how much it impacted them. I created this story for my family, but it created a cultural moment of understanding. I want to tell stories like this on a larger scale, bringing people together and creating an understanding of uncommon experiences.

As a leader, I bring people together from all over the world. When starting my film podcast 'Keepin' it Reel', my co-host and I decided we would bring on a young filmmaker as a guest every episode. We have had guests from Israel, Spain, the U.K. and more, and are currently planning our show's second season. This showcases my commitment to bringing together stories and perspectives from around the world. I want to make art that's seen everywhere, and this is my start. I am excited to work with people who come from different backgrounds, exchange stories, and use their insights to better my work. I want to tell stories that come from an informed point of view, bringing together global perspectives to create a narrative that impacts everyone.

As a storyteller, I educate and better the audience's understanding of issues tackled. Almost all of my work covers a deeper topic than it seems at first. My film, 'The Doorman' is seemingly about a girl moving to the big city, but through black and white segments her anxiety is showcased. My award-winning poem 'Roger the Pig' seems like a silly sonnet about animals, but is truly an analysis of livestock abuse. I love giving the audience a story that seems like one thing, but is astoundingly different from expected, lulling the audience into a sense of security before I take the leap. I deeply enjoy this process, and love raising awareness for the issues I care about through unconventional means.

As a filmmaker, I create relevant works in local communities, bring people together from all over the world, and educate while learning from the audience. These are my principles as a filmmaker, and what I bring to my films.

Pacific Ridge School, San Diego — Class of 2027

Applying to film school