By Jack Armstrong ’15

I have always known what I wanted to do after high school: be a filmmaker. As high school comes to an end, it’s hard to explain the level of passion and dedication I have for filmmaking. Most people would probably assume I just like to sit around watching movies and TV shows (and I do to some extent) and that that is why I want to go into film and television, but my interest in film is so much more than that. Throughout high school, the short films and documentaries I have worked on have helped me better understand why this is definitely what I want to do.

Everyone will tell you the four years of high school will go by quickly, and they are absolutely right. It may be hard “to see the point of high school” especially if you are like me and have a very specific career focus and passion. They will also tell you high school is a time for you to learn from your mistakes, which couldn’t be more true.

When I joined The Warrior staff my junior year, it quickly became a place where I could write about important issues and help inform others, but also to try new things.  The new app, Aurasma, put video content in the paper this year. My sports photojournalism has helped calm my patience and need for total perfection. The first picture I take is never going to be the best, but if I keep moving around and shooting I will eventually get it right. I still remember the moment I captured one of my best sports photos: I just happened to be on the right side of the court as Xav McCants went for the dunk, and everything about the photo just came together perfectly.

Looking back on these past four years, it’s hard to sum up the countless opportunities Sherwood has provided me. I am glad I learned more about myself and the direction I want my future to go in. Take any experience in high school and learn from it, figure out what you love doing and find a way to make it work. Whatever you want to do after high school, what is most important is that you never stop believing in yourself.