McKenzey Bell knows the importance of taking time to work on your goals and chasing after what you want. She is a pro at visual storytelling and is excited to see where her passion for filmmaking takes her in life.
McKenzey is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring/summer 2020 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.
What is your degree in?
I am recieving a Bachelor of Applied Arts in filmmaking with a minor in communication.
What led you to WSU?
The main reason I chose WSU was because it was close to home. I wanted to be able to be involved in as many family events as I could while still moving to a bigger area. I also have always really enjoyed Wichita.
How are you feeling leading up to graduation?
Leading up to graduation has definitely brought on a bunch of different emotions, especially because I wasn’t able to experience my last few months of it the “normal” way. I am so excited to be taking the next step in my career though.
What are your career plans?
At the moment, I don’t have any plans set in stone. There are so many possibilities for me right now, and all I know is that I enjoy creating. So I will let that take me where I need to be.
How has the COVID-19 crisis altered those plans, if at all?
The biggest thing that it has changed for me was finding a job right after graduation. Another thing is that my major usually involves going out and creating with a bunch of people. While I can create on a smaller scale on my own, it is more enjoyable to be doing it with others. I can’t wait for the day that I can create in group settings again.
What advice do you have for students on how to cope with the uncertainty of these times?
Keep chasing after what you want. Don’t let this unplanned moment get you to where you lose sight of what you want in life. This craziness will pass, so use this moment to better yourself so you can go and conquer the world when the time comes. I think another big thing to remember is to give yourself time to rest and do the things you enjoy so you don’t burn yourself out. It doesn’t have to be work, work, work 24/7. Taking time for yourself is so important and you shouldn’t feel bad about doing so.
What has been your most helpful learning experience while a student at WSU?
The most helpful learning experience at WSU has been my time working in the Strategic Communications office at WSU. This was a part of videography that I had yet to experience, and I have learned so much from working there. I cannot put into words how grateful I am for my time there and the people I have met through it.
What was been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge as student would have to be major events that happened during my time as being a student. COVID-19, of course, being one of them. The challenge was finding the good that came from these events rather than focusing of the bad. Being able to lean on those who care for me is what helped me overcome them. Also, focusing on what I needed to take from them in order to better myself.
