Check Out Lea Chen’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lea Chen.

Hi Lea, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I graduated from the University of Missouri, Columbia, with a degree in Communication. In the winter of my senior year in 2020, amidst the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself reflecting on the trajectory of my future. At that juncture, pursuing postgraduate studies wasn’t a clear-cut aspiration for me. The four years spent as an international student had exerted considerable strain on both my psyche and physiology, igniting a fervent desire for a lifestyle shift.

Returning to China, I embarked on my inaugural internship, marking the commencement of my cinematic journey. Serendipitously, my maiden internship was with a film and television company. Leveraging the rudimentary editing skills I had honed during my undergraduate tenure, I contributed to several noteworthy projects. The initial foray into the film industry left me captivated, despite the demanding and fatiguing schedule. The indescribable sense of accomplishment upon witnessing the fruition of our endeavors became an enduring source of satisfaction.

I navigated through three distinct internships, all tethered to the realm of cinematography – encompassing television dramas, advertisements, and, of course, cinematic productions. Immersed in diverse shooting scenarios and production landscapes, I found myself rekindling a passion for academic pursuits. A profound adoration for the cinematic production sphere crystallized, propelling me to make it the focal point of my impending professional odyssey.

Fortuitously, armed with a commendable undergraduate background and access to a myriad of informational resources, I resolved to apply to Chapman University. Here, against the backdrop of this esteemed institution, I initiated my professional sojourn as a filmmaker. Presently, I am immersed in pursuing a master’s degree in film production, concentrating on the art of editing at Chapman University. Collaborating with like-minded peers, we’re diligently crafting projects that resonate with our collective passion, poised to navigate the forthcoming chapter of my cinematic expedition.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Undoubtedly, it has been a challenging journey. Despite having practical experience through internships and jobs, I’ve come to realize that there’s a substantial gap between my skills and those of others in the industry. This gap becomes apparent in various aspects, such as proficiency with different software, familiarity with workflow intricacies, and understanding of industry standards. During my internship and ongoing academic pursuits, I often find myself in situations where my colleagues or classmates respond quickly to directors’ or clients’ requirements in a project, while I require more time to catch up with the pace. This necessitates investing additional time and effort on my part to bridge the proficiency gap.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Currently, I’m pursuing a master’s degree in the film production program with a focus on editing at Chapman University. I take pride in proclaiming that my most formidable skill at the moment is video editing. Simultaneously, I harbor a keen interest in visual effects and have dedicated a substantial amount of time to research in this domain.

My film, “Kitty,” created during my first year, serves as a commendable reflection of my abilities. Despite facing limitations in production due to certain external factors, the overall outcome was quite satisfactory. In the post-production phase, I often approach directors with confidence and bring my unique perspective to scene selection. I make an effort to use my ideas to enhance the storytelling. Consequently, I actively engage in communication with directors, proposing and experimenting with various approaches. When I successfully persuade the director, the results are usually impressive, a source of great pride for me.

Additionally, I am currently specializing in visual effects, and I often practice by creating small animations independently.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Undoubtedly, my deepest gratitude goes to my parents, who have steadfastly supported every decision I’ve made, from selecting a school and major to endorsing my career choices. Their unwavering encouragement has been instrumental in my smooth entry into the industry.

I must also express my sincere appreciation for my first internship supervisor, Ms. Zhang Bingjie, who served as my inaugural mentor in the film and television industry. Under her guidance, I acquired a wealth of practical skills and successfully navigated the transition from academic to professional work. Ms. Zhang not only shared invaluable experiences but also provided swift insights, allowing me to quickly adapt to the demands of practical work. Her mentorship was transformative, leaving a lasting positive impact on my work habits that persist to this day. I owe a significant portion of my success and professional growth to her constructive guidance and unwavering support.

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