Reese Givens

Film and Television BFA, Concentration in Screenwriting '23

“A connection can take you anywhere, whether it’s a professor, a student from another major, or a supervisor,” says the recent Film and Television graduate. “Everyone I’ve met has been eager to build relationships and help me forge my path in the creative industry.”

What would you say has been the most surprising thing you learned at Columbia? 

The most surprising thing I’ve learned at Columbia has been how collaborative the industry is. A connection can take you anywhere, whether it’s a professor, a student from another major, or a supervisor. Everyone I’ve met has been eager to build relationships and help me forge my path in the creative industry. The biggest piece of advice I would give to other students is sometimes you have to take the first step and reach out. What you get out of this school is what you put into it.

What individuals or programs at Columbia were helpful to you in reaching your goal of graduating? 

Without a doubt, the most supportive group at Columbia for me is the Student Organization and Leadership Office. I’ve been very involved in a lot organizations, making some of my closest friends there while also having opportunities to go professionally through speaker series and networking opportunities. My involvement with leadership has given me more tools than any other opportunity at Columbia, helping me become more confident in my skills and learn to advocate for myself.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I am currently interning at a studio in Los Angeles and would love to continue there or at a similar place. Fingers crossed!

If you were going to sum up your experience at Columbia in one sentence, what would you say?

It’s a challenging, rewarding, chaotic, exciting, ever-evolving roller coaster — Learn to hold on!