Naima Woods

Cinema and Television Arts, Journalism

What made you choose Columbia? 

I wanted to push boundaries with my art. Columbia offered dozens of programs that appealed to what I want to do in life/what I needed to be successful in life. I came to visit Columbia during the Admitted Students Day and it was a whole new world. The film/cinema building alone was the greatest reason for going. I was stunned at the talent so many students had and all the things I needed to be great were in every room! Columbia was the obvious choice!

What do you plan on studying during your time here?

I am studying Film right now, actually! If I can manage my time and everything correctly, I would like to minor in Journalism. I was a journalism student at my high school and, man, I loved to discover the truth in this mess of a world. When I graduated, I've gotten dozens of texts from underclassman thanking me for being a part of their lives. Hoping they can be as confident and powerful as I was during their time in high school. The truth is I struggled with so many insecurities and self doubts on a day-to-day basis, but when it came to my videos, articless and activism, none of that mattered. I wanted to see change and I became that change I wanted to see.

What are your career goals at this time?

I love when people ask me this! I want to travel the world filming new and upcoming artists. Creating and editing their music videos or recap concert videos. Truly living the Cole Bennett lifestyle; this Chicago kid grew up to be business executive, videographer, and music video director, best known for his multimedia company, Lyrical Lemonade. He did everything I want to be. I think that's what every Chicago kid wants, to be a creator of something special. 

What do you most look forward to about learning and creating in Chicago?

I've grown up in Chicago my entire life. Creating has always been a part of my identity. (Thus my social media handle @naimathecreator). Being around so many talented individuals has definitely shaped my life. so I definitely have that creating part down. What I am most looking forward to in the learning department is to grow in knowledge of editing techniques, ways to work with a camera, and anything else I can learn from my peers and educators. 

How do you see your artistic practice engaging with current events?

I am a black women living in America, how can I not see my art projecting in a world that hates my guts! It’s all going towards the way I create a video or write a journal entry. I am excited to only go up from where I am now. Follow my journey!