Josias Ortiz at Huntington University
Josias (AQF '25) shares his experience at the summer Film and Television Production Academy, and how he gained a deeper knowledge of directing.
"This past summer, I had the amazing opportunity to earn a scholarship from the Anthony Quinn Foundation to be able to head over to Huntington University in Huntington, Indiana. Huntington University is a private Christian college that has an amazing film program that I attended over the summer for aspiring filmmakers in high school. I had such a great experience with the staff and students during my short time at the university.
I learned of the program at the All-American High School Film Festival, which is where I met the head of the film department, Dr. Lance Clark. Huntington is such a beautiful campus with a warm and welcoming staff. They immediately made me feel seen and welcomed into their community. The staff was so helpful, caring, and positive. I also met some really cool, talented, and smart people that I still keep in touch with. I learned a lot within the filmmaking industry. I gained a deeper knowledge of directing, collaborating, and managing live events.
Every day, we learned something new, and every day the students got closer and closer to each other. Even people who weren’t in the same fold became really good friends. We had open dialogue with each other, too, while we were there. We have to let others in on past experiences and our plans. We got to learn from each other and teach each other life lessons that we’d never forget. I had such an amazing time over at Huntington University. I am truly grateful, and I truly appreciate the Anthony Quinn Foundation for helping me gain such an unforgettable experience."
Josias Ortiz