As I pulled my weight over that last rock, I realized we had made it. The view
was spectacular, but instead of just sit and enjoy it, my family and I pulled out our phones
to take pictures. When I decided to post the photo online later, I found myself conflicted:
does the general public deserve to see the view, given that they did not climb the
mountain? Hundreds of people will see this image online, and have different reactions to
it. The question becomes, is the message within the photograph or the viewer? It is these
kinds of abstract ideas that spur my core curiosity. In order to influence the perception of
others, it becomes necessary to understand their behavior and the biases or constructs in
which they reside. Using a visual medium to further a way of seeing the world, in which
civility, ethics, and the beauty of nature are paramount is my central goal. I do not see
this as a selfish endeavor, but rather an opportunity to benefit humanity in a significant
way.
Like my summit photo, we are influenced by an onslaught of messages every day.
How we interpret these messages affects how we live our lives. No message is “right” or
“wrong” per se, but a viewer’s perception can be influenced by the artist to achieve a
certain goal. This technique pushes citizens towards different mindsets, especially in
politics, and I believe the best way to combat oppressive messages, is to create more
powerful ones.
Since a young age, I have possessed a strong and diverse interest in music.
Playing the piano for thirteen years has helped me appreciate a variety of styles and
sounds. I distinctly remember the first time I listened to The Beatles, and being in awe of
their near perfect harmonic structure. I have also been fascinated by how technology can
be used to its maximum potential. Consider how humanity has built advanced computing
tools to help make our ideas soar leaps and bounds. Being presented with technological
devices from a young age, whether it be an iMac computer without Internet, or a clock
radio, have helped me appreciate how these tools can be used for both convenient and
intellectual purposes. I see technology as beautiful, because there is a certain precision to
it: every implement has a specific purpose. I have always found myself fascinated by the
intricate facets and features of each device. As I’ve aged, my interests have become more
nuanced. I eventually realized that these two major areas of interest could be combined;
music and technology, into an actual career. Before coming to Allegheny, I was pursuing
music recording. However, I soon concluded that the industry is headed into a dark crater
of piracy and auto-tune. I realized that movies and television have told me a series of
stories, helping me to grow and shaping who I am today. Still wishing to maintain my
musical passion, I am now following a pathway to sound design for film. I have decided
that I want to be a part of a larger storytelling process, while expanding my horizons.
There is something about motion picture, which is more subtle and indiscreet and
the utilization of musical lyrics. The narrative arc, which compels the viewer
subconsciously and nestles them into a certain frame of mind is a fascinating device.
After all, every good film is merely a trick by the filmmaker. Someday I hope to be a part
of this magic, and use it in a way that benefits society.
As I reflect upon how I have become who I am today, I cannot help but realize
how I am composed of mere pieces. The messages I receive, whether they be from my
parents, The Beatles, Marshall McLuhan, or Stanley Kubrick, are all now a part of me in
some way, shape, or form. This knowledge, and these impressions are truly a gift. In
times of self-reflection, it seems rather foolish to define myself as a singular and
definitive essence, given that every being is merely an amalgam of others. However, I
think that what all of us hope to achieve in life, is to play a part–no matter big or small–in
the recipe of another human experience.
View from the Stowe Pinnacle - Vermont in May, 2014