A first hand account on "Best of Show"

Last Saturday, April 27, I had the honor of receiving the "Best of Show" award at the Michigan Student Video and Film Festival.  For those of you who may not have read the article on the Patch or in the News Herald, this was an award won by my friend Carley Burgess and I for our PSA, "Stand Up to Bullying."

Unfortunately, Carley was unable to attend due to another honor she was receiving in California for her marketing class.  However, I was accompanied by my grandmother Sandra Noble, godmother Sally Durie, aunt Helen Moran, boyfriend Alexey LeVigne, and my teacher and her husband Janet and Chris Haddad.  

The event started off with a pre-glow where we were served pizza and drinks. Invited to this pre-glow was all of the "Best of Show" winners and their family, friends, and teachers.  It was nice to be given the opportunity to meet with other winners and discuss the different videos with one another.  Along with us in the room were different professionals from the industry such as those that have worked on commercials, films, editing, and (most fascinating to me) photography for the Detroit Free Press.  

Once we were done mingling with different professionals, we then headed into the DIA Theatre for a viewing of our films on the big screen.  It was such an incredible feeling to see something that I had produced played in a such a large theatre on this huge screen being appreciated by other people.  I have to admit I was a little teary-eyed when my PSA played.

After the hour and a half showing, all of the winners were asked to stand up and receive recognition.  It was such a wonderful feeling to be surrounded by so much talent.  I know just how much work each student put into their films, and I could feel the sense of pride and joy that was going around the room.

Upon leaving, each student was awarded a trophy, certificate, and video for their work.  I was so bummed Carley was unable to attend and miss the full experience of sharing our video with everyone.  With her wanting to pursue a career in film, and I a career in journalism, this was our first real taste of what our futures could be like.  I think her and I can say with ease that our work will not end here, and those of you reading can rest assured that we will push ourselves to produce more successful work.