Jarron Webster, Film & Media Arts BFA, Senior, Graduating Fall 2021, Tampabowtieguy.com

Growing up in Owensboro, KY, my circumstances never promoted pursuing dreams. To cope with this less than ideal reality, I resorted to writing. Whether I was journaling, writing stories, poetry or music, I never stopped writing. I became obsessed with creating stories. The challenging environment I was faced with led me to the military where I was exposed to many different experiences that enhanced my creative abilities as a whole. These experiences encouraged me to publish a book, “Millennial Marriages: A Military Relationship”, which was based on some non-fictional and fictional elements.

Upon separating from the Air Force, I was on a journey to find myself. From Real Estate to motivational speaking, to sales and other titles, I finally found my true passion, film.  I started my film venture with acting. I remember the exact moment where I decided to become an actor. I was watching the Legendary role of the Black Panther being played by Chadwick Boseman. Using that inspiration, I found an acting school and through that I found my purpose.  After building a foundation as an actor, I decided to pursue my film degree with The University of Tampa. Professors like Aaron Walker, Taylor Curry, Warren Cockerham, and so many more, helped me find my voice in film.

Professor Walker and Professor Curry both gave me the tools I needed to sharpen my writing skills. From proper formatting, to character development, and other concepts to solidify a script, I am now more than confident in the stories I create for film. Professor Curry is also partly responsible for enhancing my directorial skills. She gave me the opportunity to grow with workshops, relevant lectures, and more than enough hands-on experiences. Professor Cockerham also helped me establish myself with directing, but he showed me the technical side of things as well and how everything worked together to move the story along. I now understand not only the storytelling side of film, but the technical side, and also the business side. I feel I am fully capable of collaborating with other like-minded creators to successfully tell visual stories in a unique and compelling manner.

After graduating, I am looking to work with a noteworthy production company as a director. I would also love to help write, produce, and act when the role fits. I believe my many life experiences and my formal education has prepared me for even the greatest of film opportunities. I’m ready to bring forth value to the right team and strive for greatness within the industry.