Tag: Instructors

We recently sat down with the HMSS Assistant Instructor, Jalon Blue, to talk about his love for film and photography, his favorite movie, and more:

What do you do when you’re not teaching at HMSS?

When I am not teaching at HMSS, I am at Hiram College. I’m in my third year, majoring in film and photography. In my free time, I am usually practicing my photography skills or hanging out with friends and family.

When did you become interested in photography and film?

I became interested in film during my sophomore year in high school when we had career tech day at Cleveland Heights High School. I saw the film booth and it grabbed my attention, and I have been in love with the art form ever since! I became interested in photography during my sophomore year of college when I took my first photography class and loved it.

Continue reading “5 Questions for Jalon Blue, Assistant Instructor”

We recently sat down with HMSS Film Instructor Matt Hribar to talk about what he does when he’s not at HMSS, his favorite films, and more:

What do you do when you’re not teaching at HMSS?

It might be easier to ask what I’m not doing! I’m always writing, creating digital content like sketch videos and podcasts, or working in live entertainment around the city. Plus I love working out, eating good local food, and generally going on adventures!

How did you decide to get into filmmaking and performing arts?

I’ve always been a storyteller — when I was in high school I was making music videos to original music (which I still do to this day!), and I even did a “reality show” that I posted on YouTube. So you could say I’ve always been into performing arts.

What are the three essential characteristics of a successful HMSS filmmaker?

Continue reading “5 Questions for Matt Hribar, Film Instructor”

We recently sat down with HMSS Principal Instructor Cliff Sweeney to talk about why he became a teacher, the three characteristics of a successful Heights Middle School Shorts camper, and more:

What do you do when you’re not teaching at HMSS?

When I’m not teaching at HMSS I am working at Boulevard Elementary School here in Cleveland Heights, helping students in the community to become better leaders in a society that’s forever changing. I am also a husband and father who is constantly trying to recreate myself for their betterment.

Why did you become a teacher in the first place?

I became a teacher to help inspire and cultivate young creative minds and give them a platform to display their talents.

Continue reading “5 Questions for Cliff Sweeney, Principal Instructor”

1. How did you decide to be a writer?

I realized at a young age that life was both amazing and rough at different times. People are dealing with so much that 24 hours can go by in a blink without cherishing a day. I like writing stories, lyrics, and plays to put out into the world for people to relate to, which allows for one to slow down and appreciate life’s ups and downs.

2. What would you say are the three most important characteristics of a successful Heights Middle School Shorts camper?

Dedication to their crafts and willingness to do the little things to get better every day. The willingness to collaborate – the ability to listen to others’ ideas and opinions as well as accept criticism. And a willingness to express themselves, to give feedback – if it made you laugh we’re going to laugh (and speak about it) If it made you cry we’re going to cry. Use your emotions and senses to tell your story.

Continue reading “Five Questions for Cliff Sweeney, Lead Writing Instructor through Lake Erie Ink”

1. How did you decide to get into filmmaking?

I didn’t realize that film was something that I wanted to do early on. I always had a passion for writing and telling stories (when I could sit still enough to do so) and at first I would make comic books and act out the comics with my toys, something that would translate to storyboarding later on. My dad always loved taking me to movies and watching classics that would come on at night.

I started off making videos for my family vacations and didn’t realize that film was a “career” path until mom had me attend a Cleveland Heights summer camp where I had signed up for the “Stocks” program. My mom saw an “Interactive Media” program run by the High School’s program teacher, Mr. Glass, and signed me up unknowingly. After the first day I was amazed that this was something I could pursue, and the rest is history. As I got older I found that film was the best way I knew how to communicate with others.

Continue reading “Five Questions for Antonio Harper, Lead Film Instructor”