I figured I’d take this post to write about what I’ve been doing so far in my classes as well as post an example of my work thus far. This semester seems to be flying by rather fast as it seems like last week we were all sitting in classrooms (or should I say saunas) going over syllabi. Some people may want to know what a schedule for a graduating senior is comprised and if so then read on. This semester consists of four classes and one lab. Coinciding with my focus in production I am taking Field Video Production (CMS 340). This class is a lecture where we learn about shooting video in the field and the editing experience that goes along with it. This includes things like setting up the cameras (Sony PD-150/170) logging and capturing video and then editing the video into short video projects as assigned by the instructor. We also meet once a week for a two and a half hour lab (CMS341) where we learn how to do all of the hands on tasks required by the projects. Nat Ives teaches this lab in USM’s new production lab adjacent to the Sullivan gym. This is an example of my first video project. The assignment was to shoot a set location and edit it with music into a one-minute video postcard. I chose the baggage area at the Portland Jeport. My favorite part is the man talking about the "real/pretend pants".
I am also taking CMS400, which is the media studies Senior Project. Dr. Dan teaches this class and requires us to complete a group project pertaining to our major. This group project has resulted in the very weblog that you are reading right now. In addition to the blog we also are required to complete an online portfolio. This essentially is a resume and an online composition of our media accomplishments throughout our college career. I like this assignment because it is a great way to prepare us for a career and show what we can do to potential employers. The class will provide us with something that we can use for years to come as long as we update it.
I took my third class mainly because of the instructor, Kate Kaminski. I had her for a previous class (crime cinema) and loved the way she taught the class. This class is called Documentary Studies and Pre-Production (CMS320) and focuses on the pre production involved in making a documentary. We are paired up in groups where we are required to come up with an idea and then pitch it. Followed by writing up a proposal and treatment. We are essentially doing everything short of shooting the documentary. We also screen very interesting documentaries and then are required to write response papers over them. The class is long but goes by a lot quicker then your typical 4:10 to 6:40 due to the fact that Kate teaches classes that are very engaging. The only thing I have to say bad about the class is the dilapidated lecture hall that it takes place in (3rd floor Payson).
The fourth class I am in is Foundations of Recreation and Leisure Studies (REC110) and yes it is a 100 level class however I feel that it deserves mention. I took the class as an elective because I enjoy being active and figured it wouldn’t be that challenging but oh how I was wrong. Class is fun and engaging however it is a very serious class. We dig into the theory and history of recreation and leisure and I have been really been surprised with how much there is to learn about the subject matter. I definitely recommend the class to anyone who is interested in recreation as you truly learn information that you won’t find anywhere else.
So that’s it for now. For my next post I plan on writing about my love/hate relationship with running and staying in shape and the things I do to keep motivated.
-Kyle
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