Student Academy Awards show students possibilities beyond the classroom

By South Loop TV News Team

Columbia’s School of Film and Television recently hosted a screening of Student Academy Award–winning films at the 1104 S. Wabash Ave. building, highlighting work from student filmmakers around the world. 

The event showcased an array of short films created by college students who received recognition from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, an organization that launched the Student Academy Awards in 1972 to encourage excellence in collegiate filmmaking.

The program also highlighted how the awards have helped launch successful careers in the film industry. Past recipients include filmmakers such as Spike Lee, Bob Saget and Columbia alum Akanksha Cruczynski. 

Organizers said events like the screening give Columbia students the chance to explore new perspectives in storytelling and consider submitting their own work to future Student Academy Awards competitions.

Student Government Association Vice President and film student Amelia Lutz said the international competition allows young filmmakers to see their work in a more professional light.

“It is international, so students all over the world can apply to it,” Lutz said. “It’s a really good way for students to feel a little bit more professional in their work and get their work out there.”

Reporter: Jaylen Barlow

Camera: Janiya Williams

Web writer: Natasha Katz