Senior Kelleyha Russell is involved in the WGHS film program, Grove Cinematic as an AV Practicum student. She is also works part time as a crew leader at AMC Theaters and is on the WGHS yearbook staff. As she begins her final year of high school, she reflects on her time in film and plans for the future.
1. What drew you to join the film program?
Russell: I’ve always loved film. I’ve always loved watching movies and shows. I was a curious kid and I always wondered, “How are films made?” So once I got to high school, I saw they had film my freshman year. I was just like, hey I need to jump in there. So I did.
2. What movies or directors inspire you most?
Russell: Definitely Spike Lee, especially his movie Chi-Raq.
3. What is your favorite part of the production process and why?
Russell: My favorite part of the production process is definitely filming and actually getting the video. I don’t like to edit, but I love directing and camera operation.
4. Do you have any advice for students looking to get involved in film?
Russell: Don’t procrastinate, because I’ve struggled with that. When you’re coming into the film program make sure it’s something you really want to do because sometimes it can be really hard work. Especially if you start off in the ICAM program, it starts out easy. But as you get into Audio Visual 1, 2, and eventually practicum, it gets harder. It’s a really fun environment and you’ll have fun doing your projects, especially with our amazing teacher Mr. Sanchez. Just don’t procrastinate.
5. What is your favorite part of working for AMC?
Russell: My favorite part is the people for sure. The people are what makes the job fun. But the environment we have at Stonebriar is very welcoming and warm. It’s just a great place to be overall.
6. What is your favorite memory from high school so far?
Russell: My favorite memory from high school is definitely moving. I came from another school to Walnut Grove and met new friends like one of my best friends, Irelyn Eanes.
7. What has been your greatest challenge as a senior?
Russell: I think my biggest challenge as a senior has been my classes. It’s hard to balance them with work since I essentially work full time, or at least every day. So I just have to find balance in that.
8. What are you most proud of from your high school career so far?
Russell: I am most proud of getting my GPA back up. I’m really glad I’ve passed all my classes and kept my 3.6 GPA. I’m very proud that I did that. I’m also proud of myself for growing into a more mature person over the years. Of course I still have flaws, but I feel like I’ve grown a lot.
9. Who is your biggest supporter?
Russell: My mom. She’s my greatest supporter. When I told her I wanted to go into the Air Force and study forensic science and criminal justice, she was 100% supportive. Even if I randomly said I wanted to change something she would always support me.
10. What are you looking forward to most in your senior year?
Russell: I’m most looking forward to graduation. But other than graduation, definitely gaining more skills in film and meeting as many people I can at school.
11. Do you plan to do anything with film or media in the future?
Russell: I’ve thought about it, but I don’t think so. I know it’s a skill I’ll have if I need it in the future, but my passion is forensic science. I also want to go into the Air Force.
