Kelcy Williams, a senior from Pell City, is majoring in film with a minor in photography. Williams just completed her internship at the Sidewalk Film Festival and even received a job offer from that organization.

When did you know that JSU was the right school for you?

I knew JSU was the right school for me because, out of the schools in Alabama that offer film as a major, JSU was in a good location–centered between Birmingham and Atlanta. It was affordable, and the film program was just taking off when I was looking to transfer back in Spring 2021. The timing couldn’t have been better, and I’m thankful to have found the program when I did. I’ve always wanted a film degree, and I had nearly given up on the idea before coming to JSU.

What are some benefits of your major?

One of the greatest benefits of my major is connection and creative opportunities. The instructors are very supportive and willing to guide film students in the right direction when we get stuck. Going through the program has changed how I think and view the world. It sounds kind of cliché, but it’s the truth. I view the world much differently as a senior than I did coming into JSU as a junior. It’s one of those things that can’t really be expressed on paper. It’s an experience that is worth the hardships.

What is your favorite thing about JSU?

My favorite thing about JSU is getting to sit on the patio at the TMB just after dark with a good book, the firepit burning, and the string lights all lit up. I also love the library, but nothing beats the firepits at the TMB on a cool night when everyone else has left for the evening.

What clubs/organizations are you involved in?

I’m a Delta Zeta sorority alum!

What is one way that you have grown during your time at JSU?

I’ve grown in more ways than I could ever put into words. The biggest challenge I’ve overcome during my time at JSU is learning to prioritize my mental health. It is so important to listen to your mind and body. It’s equally as important to communicate these troubles with instructors so that they can support you and help guide you to the right resources. There’s a lot of support that JSU offers that most wouldn’t know about such as Trauma Informed Yoga! I cannot express enough just how amazing that class is. It is so relaxing, and I highly recommend attending a few sessions.

What is your favorite course that you have taken?

My favorite course so far is Intermediate Digital Photography. I learned so much in the class, and I enjoyed the coursework/assignments a lot.

What do you plan to do after you graduate?

After graduation, I plan on attending graduate school for an M.F.A. in film. I want to eventually teach.

What is a fun fact about yourself?

I love learning, especially about film and photography. In my free time, I’m always reading or teaching myself new things.

What advice do you have for first-year students?

My advice for first-year students is to do the work, and do it early! You will have more time for yourself when you don’t cram everything in the night that it’s due. When I was in high school, I was a terrible procrastinator. I would never touch an assignment before I had to. I did not stop until I started struggling with my mental health. It helped me so much to find peace of mind getting assignments completed early so that I could make time for the things that bring me joy. Don’t be me. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Remember that everyone needs to rest sometimes, and that’s okay. It’s not something to punish yourself for or feel guilty about