MDIA Student Spotlight: Jenna Keiffer

Jenna Keiffer is a junior majoring in media and social change with a minor in creative writing. She is also in her third year of being a member of Rough Cut Collective and has been an executive member for two of those years.

Featured below is a Q&A with Jenna to learn more about her time at OHIO and what made her pursue a creative career.

PR: What made you choose Ohio University?
JK: I chose Ohio University because it just clicked with me. After touring a couple of different colleges, I felt strongly about Athens and its rich community, as well as the opportunities I wanted to pursue at OHIO.

PR: Why did you decide to go into media?
JK: I've always enjoyed taking pictures and videos of my friends and my surroundings, so I knew studying media was the right direction for me. However, I chose media and social change because I want to go into documentary work and felt that the coursework for my major aligned with my career goals.

PR: What areas of media do you specialize in/are most passionate about?
JK: Although I always thought I would go into videography, I've recently learned that photography is where my passion and talent stand. Through taking pictures at the Union for the past year, I have discovered my passion for concert photography, which brings me so much joy. The live music, the dancing and singing... it is such a lovely environment to witness and take pictures of and share with others.

PR: What are some projects you have done?
JK: During my time at Ohio University, I have worked on several different short films through Rough Cut Collective. It's been a blast getting to know so many different media students and having a creative, safe space where we can learn from one another-- everybody brings something different to the table. I've learned a lot about the film set environment, how to use different equipment, and I've mostly learned a lot about myself and the type of leader and learner I am.

PR: Are there any projects you are currently working on?
JK: Right now, I'm working on a microdocumentary project for a Video Audio Field Production class. My group is interviewing Plastic Lemonade, a local band in Athens, and diving deep into a recording company they recently started up, called "The Lemonade Stand." It's been super fun talking to our interviewees and learning about their passions. We are currently in post-production, and I'm excited to be done editing so our group can show off our final product.

PR: Do you have any advice for aspiring students?
JK: As somebody with social anxiety, I have learned during my time at Ohio University that it's worth it to push yourself out of your comfort zone-- in my line of work, I can do a better job if I reach out for an interview or ask to take a picture or make a connection with somebody. It's scary for a second, but it's always worth it.