Film and Video Production: Alumni Stories
Klass Kwant - '90
What kind of work are you doing now?
I work in educational video production, both for K12 systems and
local colleges. Specifically I work at GRCC, which is where I was
hired when I graduated from GVSU in 1990.
What do you like most about your work?
I like creating video content that helps people learn; I like
seeing them learn from something I've made, and I like the tremendous
variety of projects I've been able to work on.
What do you see as your most rewarding accomplishments?
I have worked on a cooking show that was shot in Europe and aired
locally that turned out really well (www.cookingwithangus.com) - I
have helped create promotional material that shows the real-world
perspective of our diverse students, minimizing hype, which today, to
produce something engaging to watch that isn't artificially hyped, is
really gratifying.
Can you describe your path since you left Grand Valley (work,
travel, graduate school, etc.)?
I have worked full-time for the same institution since 1990; the
work done here as varied tremendously, from operating a satellite
uplink truck during two different presidential campaigns to traveling
around the world and shooting footage in Mexico, Costa Rica, Cuba,
France, Scotland and Italy - as well as many places in the U.S.
Life in the first year after graduating: What was the most
valuable advice you received?
What insights did you gain? Work really hard - give your clients
more than they expect - they will come back, and they will trust you
based on how you treated them the first time you worked with them.
WATCH A LOT OF VIDEO, whether it's online or at the theatre - pay
attention to what seems to work and try to understand why it works.
What skills and/or software would you suggest current students learn?
Today the ability to do live video from almost anywhere is
important - so understanding what works in a live event is important.
Pay attention to research about different audiences if you are trying
to reach specific audiences (don't pretend to know what appeals to a
group if data can enlighten you.) But don't let data limit your creativity.
What is one of the most useful things that you have learned in
your work/study/ travels?
What advice do you have for current students? Take advantage of
opportunities that come up - you never know which ones will turn into
something even better. You have to work hard for a long time early in
your career.
For alumni who have moved out of state/to big cities: What
advice do you have for others following this
path? Tips on making a big move, finding work, etc?
I have stayed close to home!
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