As my journey at The University of Tampa comes to an end, I can now reflect on all that I’ve learned, and how I have grown to respect the craft of film-making much more. I still have much to learn and experience, however I feel prepared to take on even greater opportunities.

The areas I lack polish are mostly in preparation and lighting. The preparation aspect is more due to personally wanting to complete something without having to waste time. I feel I can always improve on my time management and this past year has been one of my most productive and efficient. Last semester I took a producing class with Professor Rish and that allowed me to jump straight into Senior Sim with a complete production book on my short film. That was the first time I was ever that prepared and it payed off.

The areas I am most confident in are audio and editing. I thanks to my experience in music production if feel that sound is one of my best skills. I have enough experience in the audio department to capture clear and leveled audio as well as mixing and mastering the audio in post to get the most out of the recording. I am confident when choosing the correct gear for the job when capturing on location verses-controlled environments. I believe today there is no excuse for sub-par audio, at any level. As far as my editing level I am confident I can produce corporate video and entertainment that is coherently structured and cut.

My stay at The University of Tampa has positively influenced my creative process and skills. I have picked up great script writing formats and practice from Prof. Perkins. I have made one of my best documentaries that I learned a lot from under Dana Plays. Brian Sullivan helped me hone my interviewing skills as well as peaked my interest in journalism and fusing it with film. The film study courses with Professor Landon Palmer were great and made me appreciate the history of film, I am seriously impressed with his knowledge and love for film. Overall, I have gained useful knowledge and it all is resourceful.

After graduation I plan to be working for a production company creating documentaries or interview pieces. I feel I can instantly positively impact a team’s workflow, especially in the sound department. I will continue to collaborate with the colleagues I have created with in the past and will continue to produce my own original content. My portfolio displays my passion for film-making and the power of sound, my goal is to work in an environment where this will be valued.

–         Rozell Coffie