Happy New Year, everyone! I'm back again and I just want to share my outlook for 2025.
As I step into 2025, I am focusing on becoming the best version of myself, both physically and academically. One of my biggest resolutions has been getting in shape, and I’ve been taking intentional steps to reach that goal. I’ve become much more mindful and intentional about what I eat, specifically working on increasing my protein intake while keeping my calories in check. To make this easier, I’ve developed a bit of a smoothie addiction, using fruits to mask the taste of protein shakes—which I normally can’t stand. Through trial and error, I’ve finally settled on Premier Protein’s Cake Batter Delight shake. It has a sweeter vanilla taste and a thinner texture, making it much more tolerable. Along with better eating habits, I’ve committed to the gym, going every night for about two to two and a half hours. Each day, I target different muscle groups followed by 30-45 minutes of cardio, usually on the treadmill or elliptical. As I continue this journey, my confidence has been growing, and I feel stronger in more ways than one.
Beyond fitness, I’m also striving to improve as a student. One major focus for me is tackling my laziness by waking up earlier and using that extra time productively instead of procrastinating. While it’s a work in progress, I can already see improvement compared to last semester. Organization is another key priority, especially since this is my final semester of undergrad. Yay! I am currently taking eight classes to ensure I graduate in May, and balancing that workload requires a lot of structure and discipline. I’m working on establishing an effective system that helps me stay on top of my coursework without feeling overwhelmed. On top of that, I’m also in the process of applying to graduate school, which adds another layer of responsibility.
Looking ahead, my aspirations remain deeply rooted in my passion for film and storytelling. I believe in the power of media to reshape narratives, particularly for Black representation in the industry. That’s why I am carefully selecting graduate programs that align with my vision and offer opportunities to refine my craft. Schools like USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Howard University’s MFA in Film are at the top of my list because they provide strong mentorship, access to industry connections, and the chance to develop my voice as a filmmaker. Whether it’s screenwriting, directing, or producing, I want to be in a space that nurtures and allows me to discover my creative voice while equipping me with the skills to make an impact. My dream is to tell stories that resonate, challenge perspectives, and celebrate the depth of Black experiences in ways that mainstream media often overlooks; which I feel like is needed more now than ever. As I work toward these goals, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of transformation, dedication, and growth.