James Lindsay

• Sports Broadcasting, May 2017
• Previously attended Weatherford College, Weatherford, Texas
• From Aledo, Texas

What led you to transfer to TCU? 

After leaving the Navy, I was searching for what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. After relocating back to Fort Worth, I decided to see what TCU had to offer and I found their Sports Broadcasting program. The hands-on learning environment suited me, and I discovered a passion for producing.

Why did you choose your major?

At first, it was because I thought I had a major passion for sports. But after being in the program, I discovered that it is just a passion for directing and producing television and film and I’m able to get hands-on experience with the equipment and editing software.

What are your plans after graduation?

I want to be a film director. I was able to produce and direct a documentary for a class and that really stuck with me. It’s what I want to do for the rest of my life.

What has been your favorite class so far, and why?

Production classes with Mike Martin. The labs are televised which add an element of excitement. The classes are hands-on and Mike really throws you into the mix and lets you discover what you are good at.

Which professor has had the greatest impact on you?

Dr. Colin Tait and Charity Robinson

Dr. Tait’s love for the film industry sparked my interest early on, and I continue to speak with him on frequent occasions for advice on graduate school or working in the industry.

Charity gave me the opportunity to produce and direct my own documentary, which is a tangible thing that I will be able to show as I try to move up the film ladder. Although it was tough at times, she gave me the tools necessary to succeed and ultimately allowed my vision to show in the film. I learned so much from the experience of producing and directing a documentary, and I owe a lot to her.

What’s your most memorable learning experience?

I directed and produced an entire film. In Sports Documentary, we had the privilege of creating a documentary with Texas Ballet Theater. Each of us had to apply for our roles and go through an interview process with the professor, and I was ultimately selected as the director and producer. It was a challenging and stressful semester, but I am so proud of the final product! In January 2017, we held a premiere for our documentary, “A Different Playing Field,” at TCU, and we entered it into film festivals. That experience is what really cemented my desire to become a director.

Any advice for first year students?

College can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to run your life. Take a little time each day for yourself; go workout, play some video games, or just hang out with your friends. I promise that once you adjust, it gets a lot easier.