Kelcy Williams, a junior majoring in film, is from Pell City, AL. She is also double minoring in Photography and Creative Writing. An honors graduate of Jefferson State Community College, with a degree in theatre, she is a recipient of a JSU Department of Theatre and Film scholarship. Williams has also been able to maintain a 4.0 GPA for two consecutive semesters.

Why did you decide to attend JSU?

I initially decided to attend JSU as a secondary education major because it was affordable and close enough to home that I could commute to see my family on the weekends. I also liked the scholarships available at the university. After registering for a campus tour, I noticed film was listed in the majors. I knew then that I had found the perfect school for myself, and I immediately switched my major to film.

Why did you choose your major?

I’ve known for nearly half of my life that I wanted to create films. When I was in seventh grade, I was set on becoming a veterinarian. One day, we were forced through a career preparation class and given little booklets with snippets of information about different professions and industries. Half-heartedly, I flipped through the book because PFFT, I knew what I wanted to do with my life. I randomly ended up on the Producer and Production page. In that moment, something clicked, and my world changed forever. Something about filmmaking captivated me at that moment, and I never went back. I joined community theatre about a year or so later at the age of fourteen. Since then, I have gone on to work on films in the Birmingham area, and those moments that I spend on set are the moments that I feel truly alive. That’s how I knew I was going to be a film major.

In your opinion, what is the coolest thing about the Theatre and Film Department?

The coolest thing, in my opinion, about the Theatre and Film Department is how quickly it is growing! I am amazed at how many have found their home in the department.

What clubs/organizations are you involved in?

I am in Delta Zeta, pledge class of 2021.

What is your favorite thing to eat and/or drink on/off campus?

My favorite thing to eat on campus is the Caf’s breakfast. My favorite thing to drink is a hot cup of black coffee from Jazzman’s!

Where is your favorite place to hang out on campus?

My favorite place to hang out on campus is the Houston Cole Library, by far! I practically live there. I spend most of my time on the twelfth floor or outside on the patio tables.

What was the last movie you watched? Alternatively, what is your favorite movie?

The last movie I watched was Free Guy because who doesn’t love Ryan Reynolds? My favorite movie is a hard question. I like such a wide variety of films, and my favorite constantly changes. I would have to say it’s Wonder Woman, The Lion King, or To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (it is just so cute to me!).

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are filmmaking, photography, digital drawing, reading, writing, exercising, hiking, making coffees (I’m a barista!), and taking care of my plants. Even though I haven’t had time for it in my college career so far, I love acting! I spent a great deal of time in the theatre throughout my life.

What are your post-grad plans?

After I graduate, I plan on moving to Georgia. I have my heart set on Newnan, Carrollton, or Covington. All those places are closer to Atlanta where the film industry is booming. Those towns are also stunningly beautiful to me. Once there, I hope to open a coffee shop that can be rented out as a venue for various events. I want to offer photography and videography services for those events also. Outside of the coffee shop, I plan to work as a freelance artist in the entertainment industry.

What advice would you give a student who is new to JSU?

Advice that I would give to a new student at JSU is get involved! Campus is full of so many wonderful opportunities. You will meet so many new people and experience so many spectacular things. It is okay to step outside of your comfort zone. Be bold! Also, DO THE WORK EARLY! DO NOT PROCRASTINATE! Mental health is so important, and you should make college as easy as possible for yourself. But, if you find yourself drowning in stress, JSU’s counselors and counseling services are wonderful! Don’t be afraid to utilize all the services the school offers its students.

What course would you recommend to a freshman at JSU?

The course that I would recommend to a freshman at JSU is a visual art or performing arts class. Art is so important to everyday life. Also, they are very hands on. You will experience teamwork, critical thinking, and creative processes and mediums. It is very beneficial, and college art classes are nothing like high school or middle school classes. They are so much better!