How the Film Exposure Program Provides Hands-On Learning in Content Creation
Nothing compares to the enrichment that hands-on learning opportunities provide, creating valuable experiences that develop new skills and influence future career aspirations. When students learn filmmaking skills, they are developing video and media content skills that can be applied to various industries. OEDIT’s Colorado Office of Film, Television, and Media (COFTM) division sees the value in this learning style and works towards creating that access for future filmmakers. The division’s Film Exposure Program and the subsequent internship program break down the barrier to entry for high school students curious about the ins and outs of visual storytelling, providing students with a memorable experience that builds their confidence and equips them with essential skills for the content creation the twenty-first century demands.
In Mesa County’s School District 51, where the program began, high school students have the chance to collaborate with film and media experts, utilizing professional equipment to create their own short film. Students from each participating school create a different scene, which are then combined to make up the final film.
The after-school program provides an extensive educational experience in narrative filmmaking. Participants explore all facets of film production, including producing, writing, acting, directing, and shooting.
"High school students naturally gravitate towards creating content and telling stories—you see it in how they use their phones every day. The Film Exposure Program recognizes that inherent drive and enhances their natural skills by providing professional equipment and guiding them to put their fresh ideas into a narrative format,” said Program Coordinator and Film Mentor, Rachel DeWeber.
According to the exit surveys, 100% of participants believe future students will benefit from this program. Some also mentioned that the program helped improve their mental health.
Since its pilot semester in 2022, the Film Exposure Program has expanded to Montrose County School District RE-1J, Cripple Creek-Victor School District RE-1, and the Pagosa Springs Community Initiative with plans to expand across Colorado. Breckenridge Summit School District and Delta County School District 50-J will join Mesa and Montrose County this fall.
Following the momentum from the Film Exposure Program, COFTM partnered with the Downtown Grand Junction Creative District to introduce a pilot internship program in 2024. OEDIT's Colorado Creative Industries division designates communities that contribute to our state's economy through creativity, culture, and the arts as Creative Districts. This certification unlocks exciting opportunities for incredible economic growth in these creative spaces. The paid internship provided three film exposure program alums the opportunity to further explore content creation and storytelling by supporting the creative district’s social media presence. Interns gained hands-on experience in editing, idea conception, and writing, building their confidence and enhancing their collaborative skills through interactions with various stakeholders.
“The internship is much more student-led. You have to plan all of the things you need to do, have communications skills and be able to problem solve,” said Braewyn Brown, Film Exposure Program Graduate and intern. “I found out about this internship because of the wonderful people at the Film Exposure Program and being able to get all that experience and apply it in an internship has meant so much to me.”
The program successfully engaged young adults with their communities, as evidenced by the enthusiasm and dedication reflected in the content created for the creative district’s social media pages. This content, which highlighted Downtown Grand Junction’s local businesses and restaurants, notably featured a "Downtown Burger Crawl". The authenticity of the interns’ content led to over 20 hours of watch time on Instagram, with 83% of views originating from non-followers. This valuable real-world experience significantly enhances their resumes, opening doors to future academic and professional opportunities in media and beyond.
“In this field, it’s not required to have a college degree. This internship program serves as a bridge between the Film Exposure Program and the ‘real world,’” said Arielle Brachfeld, COFTM Deputy Film Commissioner. “Through these opportunities, students in the early stages of their career gain essential administrative skills and work experience, directly contributing to the growth of Grand Junction's workforce. In today's landscape, brand storytelling heavily relies on visual content, so equipping students with filmmaking experience only strengthens their hiring potential in whatever career path they pursue.”
Building on the success seen in Mesa and Montrose counties, the Film Exposure Program and its internship initiative are poised for statewide expansion, aiming to become key offerings in creative districts across Colorado. By empowering students with essential skills and real-world experience, these programs can significantly impact students and young adults, fostering a new generation of creative talent and strengthening local workforces.