Help a FGLI MHC Student Attend Film Program

I am fundraising for my friend and classmate at Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts. My friend is a First-Generation, Low-Income student of color studying Film, Media, Theater and Critical Social Thought. They are passionate about productive representation and filmmaking as a tool for hope, justice, and empowerment.

They were recently accepted to a program called Semester Cinema , a rigorous film program which involves immersive on-set experience, workshops within film production, and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to work with accredited professionals as a student. Not only that, but they are one of 35 students from applicants throughout the East Coast chosen for this program. Their professors, who encouraged them to apply, have maintained that this would be an amazing opportunity for them to extend their study as a film major and liaison for the Film, Media, Theater Department. Although they have learned so much in their classes at Mount Holyoke, they haven’t had on-set experience that would prepare them for entering the filmmaking field.

Unfortunately, not all of their aid from Mount Holyoke crosses over to this program. They have been able to attend Mount Holyoke because of the need-based aid they receive—with two on-campus jobs, they are barely making the due amount each month. Between the program’s scholarship and the Massachusetts grants and student loans, they still have to pay $9,000.

I am making this fundraiser because I know they deserve to attend this program. Their academic and extracurricular commitments and achievements are the result of their hard work, talent, and passion. As the deadline for committing to the program nears, they are continuing to seek scholarships and other means to pay for the program. I appreciate any contributions (if you are able to donate!) and your sharing of this fundraiser.