Storytelling Expedition to Rwanda

Incredible opportunity with a group who understands the issues they want to help present with all the tactical know how of getting the films accomplished and seen. Internship Placement: I learned quite a bit about the entire process of Documentary Film planning. Anyone can shoot a film, but it takes a lot to create the story and piece it together. Living Situation: Cesar's Hostil was an incredible place to stay and even though my class mates and I were packed in tight, the situation was made very easy because of the food. Cultural Immersion: Guatemala is a great place. tough not knowing enough spanish but it was easy to get by.

Even though I had read countless reviews on this program, I could never have expected the impact it would have on me until I partook in it. Just days in, I had felt like I belonged. Everyone was coming from different places in search of a great experience- and that was what we got. Even if you have never travelled alone before, this is an opportunity you shouldn't miss. Actualty Abroad arranged a great hostel for us to stay at, and food was provided there during lunch. The production supervisors are always there to help, even in non-film problems! The process of making the documentary was incredible: seeing the change that an organization is doing in people's lives and being able to document it is the most fulfilling part about this trip. On a technical note, we were provided with the basic equipment tools, but did end up using our own dslr. Another thing that should be stressed is that each group should bring external hard drives, as that became an issue when wanting to bring the film home to edit (because one week is not enough!). Overall, this month-long program is one that will stay with me for life.

My trip to Guatemala was very satisfying. From the stay at the hostel, to the trips around town I enjoyed every minute. Our overseers Robin and Aubrie Canfield did an amazing job as tour guides and were very professional teachers. Living Situation: I absolutely loved the homey feel of the hostel we stayed in. The staff was amazing and I would definitely visit again. Cultural Immersion: This trip satisfied my idea of what a complete cultural immersion should consist of.

The whole project provided a double learning experience for me. I learned about myself and my particular way of learning and also gained really good hands-on techniques in documentary filmmaking. It was something I don't think can be replicated. Internship Placement: For me, taking myself out of a classroom, a place where I can learn, was very refreshing. The stimulation and on the ground learning was to me one of the most important parts. Cultural Immersion: Excellent. Program Administration: Did a great job. However, I wish there was a little more one on one time with camera equipment. Meaning, a task or assignment to achieve something and also become more familiar with it. Health and Safety: No problem at all. Social Life: All the people accompanying the entire trip I wish I lived near and around them. They were inspired and inspiring people.

I enjoyed my time in Thailand. Robin did not spend as much time as I hoped with my group. I feel like we where just thrown into filming without really knowing anything or how to work the camera. Im glad we had someone on our team who was a film major.

It was an amazing experience and will definitely be something I remember for my whole life. The friendships and connections I made on the trip are ones I hope to keep for the rest of my life. Everyone seemed genuine and real.

The overall experience went well and I was able to discover Thai culture. I would say the overall curriculum lacked organization, but other than that I had a pleasant time. I wish the briefings and the short classes before we were sent out on the field were more structured.

The trip itself was amazing, but our class could have definitely used more training and workshops to make the filming process easier. It was difficult for some people as they did not have the experience to film comfortably.

The program is good for a beginner. It is not a good program for the experienced filmmaker looking for an internship. However, it is a unique experience filming in another country and helping communities.

Although the program and experience in a foreign country were amazing, I think there is still some room for improvement in the vetting process of the students to participate in the outreach. I will forever be linked with the change makers and even our hosts, but regret having to work with some of the individuals that were paired with me.