Friday, July 24, 2009

I'm Asian and I Hate Math (Surprise!)

What would you think if I told you that I was a Korean American student who graduated from high school 5th in his class with a 4.0 GPA, a 2290 SAT score, and a fully-paid scholarship to The College of New Jersey? What kind of career do you think I'd be aiming for?

If you guessed doctor, scientist, or businessman, you're definitely not alone. That's what my parents guessed too. Even I knew that I would likely be successful in any of those professions, and yet I did not see myself being happy in any of them either. So, what did I do? I decided to get a degree in film and television production.

Why would I "waste" a 2290 SAT score on such a pursuit? That's what my parents wanted to know, particularly my Dad. Well, the answer is simple. I am fascinated by the ability of truly great audio visual work to touch the hearts and minds of people from all backgrounds and experiences.

Do I question my choice from time to time? Sure I do. Then I go see a film like "The Dark Knight," or I watch a video montage on "So You Think You Can Dance?", or even a YouTube video that my girlfriend sent me a link for.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfBlUQguvyw

Pretty awesome, right? Anyone from any country in the world could watch that and appreciate it. Why? Because the visual and aural aspects speak a universal language of their own. It is a language that I intend to master, so that someday people across the globe can see my work and be moved by it. Although, I think I'd be happy if at the very least, I could move my Dad. I guess only time will tell.

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