I have always wanted to study abroad but never really thought it was a possibility for me and I did not think it fit with my major. I was very wrong to think this, however.
This Transatlantic Storytelling project encompassed everything I could have imagined and much more.
The days leading up to our trip, I could not wrap my head around what was about to take place. I could not believe it was all finally happening.
We had spent the first seven weeks of the semester, and even longer, learning about the country, the culture, the school and researching our documentary subjects.
From the moment we loaded the bus to head to the Indianapolis airport to the moment we arrived back home, I knew it was going to be an experience I would never forget.
While we were in Wales, there were a few times where Faith Denig and I looked at each other and just said: WOW … this is the happiest I’ve ever been.”
One of those moments was when we were at the top of Pen Y Fan Mountain. We had forgotten about everything else in the world and just took in the moment, the view was breathtaking.
The hike, the views and the friendship. It was one of those memories I will cherish forever, and it gives me goosebumps to think about.
During our time in Wales, I met people who I still speak to daily. The students and staff we were able to collaborate with at Cardiff Met University were so much fun to work with and learn from. They were all so welcoming, and I am looking forward to the day they get to visit us here in the States.
The athletes whose stories we are telling, are also people who we will have lifelong relationships with. Our entire crew built meaningful relationships with complete strangers in a matter of days. They are all now our friends.
I am grateful to be able to produce Will Godwin’s story as part our Transatlantic Storytelling documentary. When we first learned of Will’s story, we had no idea of what really happened.
In a span of 13 months, Will survived two freak accidents which could have killed him. It’s a powerful story and we’ll be the first to share it with the world soon.
Will is one of the most upbeat, inspiring and outgoing people I have ever met. His story of tragedy and triumph is one I am honored to tell and share with you all.
Throughout the trip, it was little things that stuck out to me, such as the arcades, coffee shops, Llandaff Cathedral, and Cardiff Bay. Cardiff Castle and the center of the city was just a short walk from our hostel. We experienced so much.
I am beyond thankful to have had the opportunity to travel to a new country, experience a new culture, make new lifelong friends and create countless memories.
Our team is currently in the postproduction phase now, as we are all working to edit and produce our features for the final documentary. We are excited to share the final project in the months ahead.